Overview & Description:

Developed by Albert Ellis, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify irrational beliefs and cognitive distortions that may be contributing to emotional or behavioral issues.

Core Concepts:

1. ABC Model: REBT utilizes the ABC model, where “A” stands for activating event, “B” for beliefs about the event, and “C” for the emotional and behavioral consequences stemming from beliefs.
2. Cognitive Restructuring: Through cognitive restructuring, REBT therapists assist clients in identifying, challenging, and altering their harmful beliefs.

Example:

If a person believes that they must be liked by everyone (B) and then experiences a social rejection (A), they might feel depressed (C). REBT aims to alter belief B to reduce the emotional impact of such events.

Implications:

• Emotional Regulation: REBT provides tools for managing and altering emotional responses to stressful events.
• Behavior Modification: By changing underlying beliefs, REBT can also alter behavioral responses.

References:

• Ellis, A., & MacLaren, C. (1998). Rational emotive behavior therapy: A therapist’s guide. Impact Publishers.
• Ellis, A. (2004). Rational emotive behavior therapy: It works for me—It can work for you. Prometheus Books.