How Does Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy Work?
Today, there are many and very diverse approaches that we can find in the field of psychology. Knowing which type of therapy is best for us can become a truly overwhelming process. If you are a psychology professional, it can also be difficult for you to know which path to take and what training to take.
Have you ever heard of rational emotive behavioral therapy? In this article, we will focus on explaining how this therapeutic proposal works. To do this, we begin by exploring its origins and foundations. Next, we will explain the ABC model and end by talking about the techniques and strategies used.
Origin and foundations of Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, also known as REBT by its acronym, was developed by Albert Ellis in the 1950s. It belongs to the therapeutic models developed within the cognitive-behavioral proposals.
However, its main objective is to identify and modify irrational beliefs that generate dysfunctional emotions and behaviors. It is considered essential that the person becomes aware of the problem and assumes his or her share of responsibility in creating and maintaining it.
How does Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy work?
One of the characteristic aspects of REBT is that It is argued that emotional suffering and dysfunctional behaviors are caused by the person’s belief system. Especially irrational beliefs. Therefore, the main objective is to change these irrational beliefs for others that are rational and effective.
Another interesting aspect of this therapeutic approach is, apart from its focus on the present, it places a lot of emphasis on returning responsibility to the person. It is considered that the work that the patient does is essential to benefit from the results. It is considered a brief therapy since, in theory, the greater the involvement, the shorter the duration of the process.
The idea that it is not events that generate the emotions we feel, but that it is our own beliefs (or interpretations) about those events that generate discomfort has spread widely. This contribution has considerably influenced subsequent psychological approaches and has been adapted or used in many clinical contexts.
The ABC Model
The ABC model is a fundamental pillar within rational emotive behavioral therapy. The main idea is that An event activates certain beliefs that will generate specific emotions and behavioral responses. Following the model, we would find that:
It is important to note that “A”, the activating event, can be an external or internal event. That is, any stimulus that triggers physical and/or emotional discomfort in the person. In relation to “C” it is relevant to clarify that this includes any physiological, somatic and/or emotional response that occurs as a consequence.
For example, the fact that a person misses the bus when going to work (this would be A, the activating element), can activate irrational beliefs related to one’s own ineffectiveness (this point would be B). As a consequence, The person may feel anxiety and hopelessness that can lead to immobilization. (point C inside the model).
From the approach proposed by Ellis, the work focuses on identifying these irrational beliefs to change them for more functional and realistic ones. When this happens, REBT advocates that the person will experience more pleasant emotions and respond to situations with healthier behaviors.
REBT techniques and strategies
Rational emotive behavioral therapy uses cognitive and behavioral exercises to change “negative” thoughts and behaviors with realistic, functional and constructive thoughts and behaviors. This is achieved through the belief dispute technique, characteristic of REBT, in which irrational beliefs are challenged.
In addition to identifying beliefs using the ABC model, the therapy proposed by Albert Ellis uses tools such as positive visualization and reframing of thinking. It is a directive therapy in which tasks are assigned to the patient to perform between sessions with the aim of promoting their autonomy.
Another interesting aspect is that, from the REBT, The patterns of thoughts, emotions and dysfunctional behaviors that are occurring in the present moment are addressed. To do this, dynamics such as self-registration of automatic thoughts and identification of triggering situations are proposed. Self-assessment scales and questionnaires are also provided.
Since it is based on cognitive behavioral therapy, certain proposals from it are incorporated. Among them, cognitive restructuring stands out – which would be the change of some beliefs for others -, gradual exposure and behavioral rehearsal, among others. We also work through imagination and role-playing.
To all this, psychoeducation is added, of course, so that patients can understand the importance of the relationship between beliefs, emotions and behaviors. The ABC model explained above is of great help at this point.
