A story from Distortion Detective

Alex: no reply to a text

bedroom-night scene

Alex texted his friend 3 hours ago asking if they want to hang out this weekend. They still haven't replied.

“They're ignoring me on purpose. They probably don't want to be my friend anymore.”

alex character

In the game

Which thinking trap caught Alex? Name the trap, then check whether the thought holds up.

Spotting thinking traps (cognitive distortions)FriendsOnlineAges 10–16Solo or with a Guide

Free. Kids never need an account. Therapists and parents can guide from their own screen.

🖨️ Print the take-home sheet · the story, three questions to talk over, free

About Distortion Detective

Noticing a thought like "Nobody likes me" or "I always mess up." Naming the trap behind it, then checking whether the thought holds up.

Helpful for: negative self-talk, assuming the worst, black-and-white thinking, jumping to conclusions. More in the glossary