Which cognitive distortion involves attributing a negative event as a personal flaw without acknowledging other factors?

The cognitive distortion that involves attributing a negative event to a personal flaw while overlooking other contributing factors is known as personalization and blame. This distortion leads individuals to take responsibility for events outside of their control, often resulting in feelings of guilt, inferiority, or shame. For instance, if someone experiences a setback in a group project, they might conclude it was entirely their fault, disregarding the influences of team dynamics or external circumstances.

Personalization skews the individual's perception, causing them to believe that they are the direct cause of negative outcomes, rather than recognizing that multiple factors can contribute to such events. It fosters an unhealthy mindset, as it not only diminishes self-worth but can also impact mental health by fostering anxiety or depression.

The other options reflect different forms of cognitive distortion but do not specifically capture the essence of attributing blame solely to oneself without considering external variables. Understanding personalization and blame can help individuals reframe their thinking and recognize the contextual dynamics at play during difficult situations.