Albert Ellis introduced Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy in the 1950’s. It is a form of therapy, which propounds that irrational beliefs and thoughts cause emotional and behavioral disturbances. In his first major publication on Rational Therapy, Ellis mentioned that people are mostly affected by their attitudes or perceptions about external events, rather than the external events themselves.
When people incorporate these three ‘musts’ in their lives, it can create difficulties in their lives. For instance, if people think ‘I must do well else I am no good’, it will lead them to perceive failures in a more intense manner. Experiencing failures will be devastating for them. Also, seeing people in an extreme manner, that is, as bad or good, will stop people from forgiving mistakes and will make them inflexible and rigid. Lastly, the thought that one must get what they want would lead them to have low frustration tolerance and anxiety.
To address their concerns, the clients are taught the A-B-C-D-E-F model:
A- Activating event
B- Belief
C- Consequences
D- Disputing interaction
E- Effect
F- New feeling
According to this, if a person’s belief (B) about the activating event (A) is rigid, it can lead to adverse behavioral and emotional consequences (C). The client is taught to identify these elements. They can then dispute (D) the evidence for their unhealthy beliefs and see the effects (E) of changing their beliefs. This leads them to experience new feelings (F).
These REBT techniques has been used for the treatment of depression, anxiety and other psychological disorders. It has also been used for marital and family therapy. In addition, it is beneficial in group settings as people can use the techniques, they have learnt with each other.
If you or your loved ones require professional help for your concerns, the team of trained psychologists and psychiatrists at Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness center will provide counselling to you to ensure you get the best possible treatment. You can reach out to us at 8151830000.
REBT aims to help people reduce their emotional and behavioral disturbances, and to live a happier life. It is based on the premise that repetition of irrational thoughts is what keeps dysfunctional thoughts alive. At Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness center, through REBT, you will be taught to think more rationally and to deal effectively with negative feelings in a healthy manner.
By,
Monalisa Kar (Psychologist) – Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness