Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) is yet another behavioural therapy and, not unlike CBT, it also asserts that emotions and behaviour are predominantly engendered by one’s ideas, beliefs, attitudes and thinking.
In addition, however, REBT also explores the underlying reasons for the cognitive distortions as identified through CBT: it contends that we place demands and expectations upon ourselves that result in emotional distress. REBT also places value upon secondary disturbance, such as worrying about worrying. There is a larger overall focus within REBT upon the concept of self-acceptance; and even an acceptance of the potential use that emotions may have (even those emotions which are generally considered as negative). REBT tends to be more of a short-term approach, and is grounded in the idea that people generally want to do well in life: people want to achieve their goals and find happiness. However the intrusion of irrational thought may be getting in their way, influencing how they perceive their own circumstances and as a result leading to unhealthy actions and behaviours that may interfere with their current life goals. Once these irrational thoughts are identified and understood, REBT paves the way for skills development; such as problem-solving, assertiveness, improved social skills and conflict resolution capabilities. Such techniques can be achieved through mechanisms like rationalising techniques, guided imagery and visualisation, reframing, exposure to a feared situation as well as through disputing irrational thoughts. Furthermore, physical coping techniques are also explored, incorporating exercises such as meditation and progressive muscle relaxation. REBT also propagates the notion of unconditional self-acceptance (one has their flaws, but these do not in any way make them less worthy); unconditional other-acceptance (accepting that fact that others will not always treat one fairly); and finally unconditional life-acceptance (the acknowledgement that life will not always go to plan, and that one is equipped to bear life’s hardships).