What is Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)?

This video describes rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT). REBT is a therapeutic modality that was developed by Albert Ellis. It is a version of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Cognitive behavioral therapy is a general term that refers to a number of specific modalities that emphasize the role of cognition (thinking) and behavior (doing) in the treatment of mental health symptoms. REBT and cognitive therapy (CT; developed by Aaron Beck) are the two most popular versions of CBT, although there are many other versions of CBT as well. REBT is based on the idea that cognitive affective and behavioral processes can be manipulated to reduce symptoms. Albert Ellis referred to the affective processes as “emotive,” hence the name rational emotive behavior therapy. Another key component of REBT is the idea that the perception of circumstances do not cause symptoms, but rather the individual’s perception of circumstances cause symptoms. REBT considers the therapist to be an expert and someone who promotes rational thinking. In REBT, rational thinking can eventually change feelings, behavior, and thoughts and result in a reduction of symptoms. REBT is considered a humanistic modality. Ellis believed that individuals are goal-directed and he saw the human condition and therapy as positive. Ellis did not believe in judging the individual, but rather he judged the behavior. Ellis developed an ABC model. “A” is the Activating Event, “B” is the Belief, and “C” is the Consequence. The Activating Event as a stressor. The belief system is what a person uses to interpret the stressor. The results of the stressor being processed with a belief are the consequences. Consequences can lead back to an Activating Event, so the ABC model can become a cycle. Ellis had a number of techniques in addition to this ABC model, including role-playing, shame attacking exercises, reframing, homework, and humor.

[stephaniewescoup]

We watched a lot of your videos in grad school! You are a celebrity to my cohort! Keep up the great work!

[mrbritishguyesq]

I spent years depressed as shite. But something happened where I just accepted, I cannot change the behaviours of others, I cannot change the situation I find myself in, but I can change my response to those things. And that powerlessness placed the responsibility on me. And allowed me to grow, and learn and accept who I am. I really think this type of therapy is important.

[lar.]

For me, therapist being the expert was one of the best things about REBT. I don't think it's for everyone because of how confrontational it is, but for other people it works very well.

[wandamixon]

I appreciate the juxtaposition of REBT with Person-centered therapy as focused on unconditional self-acceptance versus other acceptance. I probably have read, but didn't remember that CT and REBT are the most popular of the cognitive modalities. The statement that REBT is based on the idea that cognitive affective (emotive) and behavioral processes can be manipulated to reduce symptoms really captures its essence in addition identifying the pillars of REBT as philosophy and perspective. I appreciate the emphasis on the wide range (depth) of this therapy. The dichotomy is Ellis' belief that the human condition is inherently positive and goal-directed, yet there is a tendency toward retaining irrational beliefs and self-defeating behavior. Irrational beliefs associated with absolute terms including must and should cause symptoms. With the ABC Model, the cyclical process, is A as the stressor, B as the perspective and C as the result. Techniques include homework, humor, reframes, role-plays, and shame attacking exercises with the goal of disputing irrational beliefs.

[adambrowne]

I never realized the "depth" (as Dr. Grande describes it) of REBT. It was very interesting to think about how REBT can be used to analyze simple thoughts, feelings, and behaviors like brushing your teeth or enjoying an ice cream cone, but also for much more complex issues like how can I find meaning in life or what have I contributed back to society. This was very thought-provoking to me.

[dougg]

I'm really enjoying those videos explaining the different types of therapies .

[virginiamurrey]

I completed a research assignment based on REBT and found it to be extremely interesting. It is great to hear materials that I have previously learned on this topic, as well as new information to build on my education.

[dHunter]

I love that you distinguished between Roger's unconditional positive regard aspect versus REBT's unconditional self-acceptance component! In a world where individuals are always seeking acceptance and confirmation from outsiders, my opinion is that people often overlook the self-acceptance aspect, which can ultimately halt internal change. Unfortunately, I've never been a huge fan of REBT other than that specific component. However, your explanation of this therapy has been very beneficial for me to grasp the concept and features of REBT better. Thank you!

[ivengrowe]

This modality will stand out in my mind because of these words, "Circumstances do not cause symptons, an individual's perception of circumstances cause symptoms." To me this a powerful statement. Their perception causes them to think thereby changing their feelings and behavior reducing symptoms. It's also called a humanistic modality where we should look at the behavior, not the individual. When irrational thinking comes into play, the ABC model can help turn it into something positive.

[evieparatore]

Thank you Dr Grande. I am a psychiatric np student and I find these helpful before I delve into my research thank you

[ClarenceWorley]

I'm trying to learn to apply this theory as a substance abuse counselor. Very informative, thank you.

[jacogeorgedippenaar]

Dear Dr. Grande


I must say, while searching for videos your name stood out "Grande", as in the more fulfilling size of coffee, heh.

I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and express my appreciation for this well presented and logical explanation, it really helped and provides a good foundation introduction for me to continue my reading on the topic.

[sophierivers]

I am learning about this in my theories of personality class right now and like all of your videos, I found this to be very helpful. Thanks for the good content!

[nara.sundara]

This analysis is highly important.

It clarified the main method used by Sadhguru on his speech and attempts at psychology.

It helped dispel the mystique, how it works and how to improve the method in a scientific way.

This creates solid and independent thought.

[melodymacken]

Brilliant explanation and definition. Thankyou Dr.

[farheenausaf]

Thanks a lot for this video. I really like the way you speak and explain the concept of REBT. The way in which you discussed it made it fairly easy to understand. Thanks for your effort.

[midnightmidnight]

Thank you, Dr Grande. Watching your videos to help me prepare for comps.

[simev]

Beliefs, whether rational or irrational, are tied to the identity of a person. That’s why they are so hard to let go. So I get that re-orienting or reconciling the erring logic with is what is really out there is helpful in some way, barring other more debilitating disorders.

[morganskinner]

Thank you for sharing your videos! They have been incredibly helpful for revising study material prior to my exams.

[shauntaepacheco]

Thanks for the overview. I can see how the ABC Model could be an effective tool for
change. Sometimes our perception of an event may not always be accurate. Taking
inventory of the experience in a rational way can change the way we view things
in the future.