3. Precipitating Factors Exploring and establishing the maintenance factors involved helps us to better understand the presenting problems. However, we may still be unclear what led to the onset of the difficulties. We introduce the notion of a longitudinal or historical formulation that identifies precipitant (setting conditions) or triggers to the onset of the difficulties. These typically turn out to be particularly stressful events in time and place. Triggering Event: The end of an intimate relationship. Emotion Sad Precipitating Factors Situation Split Coffee Thoughts I cannot do anything right, I am useless Core Belief: I am unlovable, I am useless Conditional Belief: if I am in a relationship, then I am okay. Compensatory Strategy: Work hard to avoid thinking about relationship ending. Physiological Tearful Behaviours Go to bed, avoid going to work