The aim of this research was to evaluate some cognitive variables associates with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults, in the city of Medellin (Colombia). It is a descriptive analytic relational case-control study, with a sample of 147 persons: 36 cases (with indicators for GAD) and 111 persons in the control group (without GAD indicators). Sample was selected through a non probabilistic procedure. Cognitive variables (schemas, processes, products and coping strategies) were evaluated with the following instruments: Diagnostic Instrument GAD-Q IV (Newman, 2002), Young Schema Questionnaire, YSQ-L2 (J. Young 1999), Automatic Thoughts Inventory IPA, (Ruiz Y Lujan, 1991), Modified Coping Strategies Questionnaire, Londono and cols. 2001).Statistical non-parametrical procedures were applied for the comparison of the independent samples. Results obtained show significant differences between the groups, with predominance of maladaptative schemas, error in information processing and negative and positive self-verbalizations in the sample with GAD, as well as emotional avoidance strategies and conformism.