Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) is the pioneering form of cognitive behavior therapy developed by Dr. Albert Ellis in 1955.
– Albert Ellis
People are not disturbed by things but rather by their view of things.
This quote from Ellis is central to the theory upon which Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy is based. It assumes that many people with emotional or behavioral problems, struggle, due to the way they perceive their experiences rather than simply the experiences alone. In his revolutionary concept, Ellis propounded that the way we think has a significant impact on the way we feel. Thus, REBT differs from the other mainstream therapies, mainly in the importance it places on discussing how clients think.
REBT places a good deal of its focus on the present. It is a rather action-oriented approach to managing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral disturbances. While our past does, of course, shape who we are today, it is an irrational belief if you feel you cannot escape your past. With an emphasis on the present, individuals are taught how to examine and challenge their unhelpful thinking which creates unhealthy emotions and self-defeating behaviors. Thus, according to REBT construct, our thinking about events majorly leads to emotional and behavioral difficulties.
REBT is a practical approach to assist individuals in coping with and overcoming adversity as well as achieving their goals. Ellis’ theory emphasized that at the root of many of our emotional and behavioral problems, are some basic irrational assumptions or assumptions that are not well-grounded in reality. These influence people to act in ways that are inappropriate, unhelpful, or even destructive. REBT addresses irrational attitudes, unhealthy emotions, and maladaptive behaviors and it attempts to help clients change the way they think to reduce negative symptoms and improve their quality of life.
The uniqueness of REBT lies in techniques of “disputing” that involves challenging and questioning the irrational and dysfunctional beliefs consequently, replacing them with more sensible and functional beliefs. Because REBT aims to facilitate change in core beliefs and thought patterns that help clients deal with their problems more effectively and improve their ability to function and feel in a healthy way. The result is – not just changes in a few thought patterns or reducing some problematic symptoms, but a new perspective on life .
Ultimately, maintains the Albert Ellis Institute New York, REBT helps individuals to develop a philosophy and approach to living that can increase their effectiveness and satisfaction at work, in living successfully with others, in parenting and educational settings, in making our
community and environment healthier, and in enhancing their own emotional health and personal welfare.