Final answer:
Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a cognitive-behavioral therapy developed by Albert Ellis, focusing on identifying and changing irrational beliefs to promote healthier emotions and behaviors. The therapy uses the ABC model to challenge and replace dysfunctional thought patterns with rational ones. REBT aims to give individuals control over irrational thoughts to achieve psychological well-being.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Ellis' Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy?
Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy developed by psychologist Albert Ellis in the 1950s. REBT is based on the idea that our thoughts and beliefs about events, rather than the events themselves, lead to emotional and behavioral reactions. The goal of therapy is to identify irrational or dysfunctional beliefs, challenge and dispute these thoughts, and replace them with more rational and adaptive thoughts. This, in turn, helps individuals to develop healthier emotional responses and behavioral patterns.
According to REBT, a central mechanism is the ABC model which stands for: A - Activating Event, B - Beliefs about the event, and C - Consequences including emotional and behavioral responses. Ellis contended that by altering the belief system (B), one can change the consequences (C), thereby reducing emotional distress and promoting more functional behavior. This therapy is applicable to a range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress.
Behavioral economists also recognize that systematic behavior which may appear irrational can have underlying rational reasons when viewed through a wider lens, a perspective that is in some ways aligned with the principles of REBT. REBT aims to make individuals realize that they can have control over their irrational thoughts and can achieve psychological health by fostering a rational way of thinking.