APPLYING SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY

IN TO CLINICAL AND COUNSELING

PSYCHOLOGY

FACILITATED BY
SREELAKSHMI KIZHAKOOT
Social anxiety

Social anxiety, also known as social anxiety disorder (SAD) or social phobia, is a mental health
condition characterized by an intense and persistent fear of social situations. People with
social anxiety often experience excessive worry and self-consciousness in social settings,
leading to avoidance of various social interactions. This can significantly impact their daily
life, relationships, and overall well-being. Individuals with social anxiety experience an
overwhelming fear or anxiety in social situations, particularly when they believe they are
being observed or judged by others. Social anxiety can manifest with physical symptoms such
as trembling, sweating, blushing, rapid heartbeat, nausea, or muscle tension when facing
social situations. o cope with their anxiety, individuals with social anxiety often avoid social
situations or endure them with great discomfort. This avoidance can limit their personal and
professional opportunities. Social anxiety can interfere with various aspects of life, including
relationships, work or academic performance, and overall quality of life.
Social anxiety

 The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) outlines specific criteria
for the diagnosis of Social Anxiety Disorder, also known as Social Phobia. To be diagnosed with Social
Anxiety Disorder, an individual must meet the following criteria:
 A. Marked Fear or Anxiety: The person experiences a marked and persistent fear or anxiety about one or
more social situations in which they might be scrutinized or evaluated by others. These situations typically
include social interactions, performances, or public speaking.
 B. Avoidance or Endurance with Fear: The individual actively avoids or endures these social situations with
intense fear or anxiety. In cases where avoidance is not possible, the person endures the situation with
significant distress.
 C. Interference with Daily Life: The fear, anxiety, or avoidance significantly interferes with the person's daily
life, occupation, or social functioning. This can manifest as difficulty forming relationships, academic or
work underachievement, or reduced quality of life.
 D. Duration: The fear, anxiety, or avoidance must persist for at least six months.
 E. Not Attributable to Other Causes: The symptoms cannot be better explained by another mental
disorder, a medical condition, or the effects of a substance, medication, or substance abuse.
 F. Typical Onset: Symptoms usually begin in adolescence or early adulthood.
 G. Culture and Context: The fear or anxiety must be excessive or unreasonable in the given sociocultural
context.
Social psychological roots of social
anxiety
1. Negative Social Evaluation: One of the central elements of social anxiety is the fear of
negative evaluation by others. Socially anxious individuals tend to overestimate the likelihood
of being judged, criticized, or rejected by others. These negative expectations can lead to
avoidance of social situations.
2. Social Learning and Conditioning: Social anxiety can develop through social learning
experiences. If someone has had traumatic or distressing social experiences, they may
associate social situations with fear and avoidance. This can lead to the development of social
anxiety.
3. Social Comparison: People with social anxiety often engage in excessive social comparison,
where they compare themselves negatively to others. This constant self-criticism and
comparison can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and fear of being negatively evaluated by
others.
4. Attentional Bias: Socially anxious individuals tend to have an attentional bias toward
threatening or negative social cues. They are more likely to focus on and remember social
situations where they felt embarrassed or judged, reinforcing their anxiety.
Social psychological roots of social
anxiety
1. Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: Socially anxious individuals may engage in behaviors that make the
feared outcome more likely. For example, if they avoid social situations, they may miss
opportunities to develop social skills, making negative evaluations more likely when they do
interact with others.
2. Social Rejection Sensitivity: Some individuals with social anxiety have a heightened sensitivity
to the possibility of social rejection. They may interpret neutral or ambiguous social cues as
rejection, leading to increased anxiety.
3. Social Norms and Expectations: Perceived social norms and expectations can contribute to
social anxiety. When individuals feel pressure to conform to idealized standards of behavior
and appearance, they may fear failing to meet these standards in social situations.
4. Social Support and Coping Strategies: A lack of social support and effective coping strategies
can increase vulnerability to social anxiety. Having a supportive social network can provide a
buffer against the negative consequences of social anxiety.
5. Cultural and Societal Factors: Cultural and societal factors can shape the prevalence and
expression of social anxiety. Cultural expectations regarding social behavior, individualism vs.
collectivism, and the importance of assertiveness can influence the development and
experience of social anxiety.
Theoretical perspectives

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Theory: Cognitive-behavioral models of social anxiety emphasize

the role of cognitive processes, such as negative self-beliefs, cognitive biases, and self-
focused attention. According to this theory, individuals with social anxiety hold irrational
beliefs about themselves, expect negative social outcomes, and engage in self-critical
thinking. These cognitive processes contribute to anxiety in social situations and
avoidance behaviors.
2. Self-Presentation Theory: This theory posits that social anxiety arises from the concern
individuals have about presenting themselves favorably to others. The fear of negative
evaluation drives the anxiety. Socially anxious individuals are highly attuned to their self-
presentation and are often preoccupied with the impression they make on others.
3. Social Rank Theory: This theory suggests that social anxiety is related to concerns about
social hierarchies and status. People with social anxiety may fear being placed in a low
social rank and believe they will be judged negatively based on their perceived social
status. This fear of social status loss can lead to anxiety in social situations.
Theoretical perspectives

1. Sociocultural Theories: Sociocultural models consider the impact of societal and cultural
factors on the development of social anxiety. Cultural norms, expectations, and values
regarding social behavior can influence the prevalence and expression of social anxiety.
For example, cultures that emphasize collectivism may have different social norms that
affect social anxiety.
2. Attachment Theory: Attachment theory suggests that early attachment experiences can
influence the development of social anxiety. Insecure attachment styles, characterized by
fear of rejection and abandonment, may contribute to the fear of negative evaluation
and difficulty forming secure social connections.
3. Learning Theories: Behavioral and social learning theories propose that social anxiety can
be learned through conditioning. Traumatic or negative social experiences can lead to
the association of social situations with fear and avoidance, contributing to the
development of social anxiety.
Theoretical perspectives

1. Evolutionary Psychology: Some evolutionary psychologists propose that social anxiety

may have evolved as an adaptive response to potential social threats. Avoiding situations
that could lead to rejection or harm might have conferred survival advantages in
ancestral environments.
2. Interpersonal Theory: This theory emphasizes the role of interpersonal factors in the
development of social anxiety. It suggests that early social experiences, such as bullying
or rejection, can shape individuals' expectations and beliefs about social interactions,
leading to social anxiety.
Depression

Depression, as a mental health condition, is formally known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) according to
the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). To be diagnosed with Major
Depressive Disorder, an individual must meet specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5.
The criteria for Major Depressive Disorder include:
 A. Depressed Mood: The individual must experience a persistent feeling of sadness, emptiness, or
irritability most of the day, nearly every day. This mood change is often self-reported by the individual.
 B. Loss of Interest or Pleasure: The individual experiences a noticeable decrease in interest or pleasure in
most, if not all, activities, most of the day, nearly every day.
 C. Additional Symptoms: The individual may experience several additional symptoms, such as changes in
appetite or weight, disturbances in sleep (insomnia or hypersomnia), psychomotor agitation or retardation,
fatigue or loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, diminished ability to think or
concentrate, and recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or a suicide attempt.
 Depression

 . Duration: These symptoms must be present for at least two weeks, and they represent a change from
the individual's previous functioning. The symptoms should persist consistently during this time.
 E. Significant Impairment: The symptoms of depression must cause significant impairment in the
individual's social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
 F. Exclusion of Other Causes: The symptoms should not be attributable to the physiological effects of a
substance (e.g., drugs or medications) or another medical condition.
 G. Not Better Explained by Bereavement: If the individual has experienced a significant loss, such as the
death of a loved one, the symptoms must be present beyond the normal grieving process. In this case,
the symptoms should last for at least two months and be associated with impairment.
Social psychological roots of
depression

1. Negative Life Events: Exposure to negative life events, such as the loss of a loved one,
divorce, financial difficulties, or serious illness, can trigger and exacerbate depressive
symptoms. These events can disrupt an individual's social and psychological equilibrium,
leading to feelings of hopelessness and sadness.
2. Social Isolation and Loneliness: Lack of social support, feelings of loneliness, and social
isolation are risk factors for depression. Humans are inherently social beings, and a lack
of meaningful social connections can lead to feelings of despair and sadness.
3. Interpersonal Conflict: Ongoing conflict in personal relationships, such as marital discord
or family strife, can contribute to depression. Interpersonal stressors can create a hostile
or unsupportive social environment, which, in turn, can lead to feelings of helplessness
and despair.
Social psychological roots of
depression

1. Social Comparison: Constantly comparing oneself to others, especially in a negative light,

can contribute to depression. When individuals perceive themselves as inferior or
unsuccessful in comparison to others, it can lead to low self-esteem and depressive
symptoms.
2. Perceived Social Rejection: The perception of being rejected or excluded by peers,
friends, or society can lead to depressive symptoms. The fear of rejection and the
experience of being marginalized can significantly impact an individual's self-worth and
emotional well-being.
3. Stigmatization: The social stigma associated with mental health issues can deter
individuals from seeking help for their depression. This can lead to delayed treatment
and exacerbation of depressive symptoms.
Social psychological roots of
depression

1. Social Learning and Modeling: Social cognitive theories suggest that individuals can learn
depressive behaviors and thought patterns from their social environment. If they are exposed
to friends or family members with depression, they may be more prone to developing
depressive symptoms themselves.
2. Cultural Factors: Cultural norms and expectations can influence the expression of depression.
In some cultures, the stigma associated with mental health problems can lead to the
suppression of depressive symptoms, making them less visible but potentially more deeply
rooted.
3. Socioeconomic Factors: Socioeconomic status, including poverty and limited access to
resources, can be social determinants of depression. Economic disparities and inequality may
contribute to feelings of powerlessness and despair.
4. Social Support: Adequate social support can serve as a protective factor against depression.
Strong social networks and meaningful relationships can provide emotional and practical
support, which can buffer the impact of stress and adversity.
Self presentation theory

Self-presentation theory, often associated with the work of Mark R. Leary, primarily focuses
on the role of self-presentation in social interactions. While it is not a primary theory for
understanding depression, it does offer insights into how concerns about self-presentation
may relate to depressive symptoms in some individuals.
1. Impression Management: Self-presentation theory posits that individuals engage in
impression management, where they attempt to shape and control the image they
project to others. This involves efforts to present themselves in a positive light and avoid
negative judgments or criticism from others.
2. Self-Esteem and Self-Presentation: People with low self-esteem may engage in self-
presentation behaviors to protect their fragile self-image. They might be highly
concerned about how others perceive them and fear negative evaluations, which can
lead to a preoccupation with self-presentation strategies.
Self presentation theory

1. Depressive Rumination: Depressive individuals often engage in rumination, which

involves persistent and repetitive thinking about one's problems, negative self-
evaluation, and perceived failures. These ruminative thought patterns can be related to
concerns about how one is perceived by others and the fear of being negatively
evaluated.
2. Avoidance and Withdrawal: Some individuals with depression may engage in avoidance
behaviors, avoiding social situations or withdrawing from social interactions to reduce
the risk of negative evaluation. This can lead to social isolation and reinforce depressive
symptoms.
Self presentation theory

1. Negative Self-Presentation Strategies: Depressive individuals may employ negative self-

presentation strategies, such as self-deprecation or self-criticism, as a way to pre-
emptively address potential negative evaluations from others. These strategies can
exacerbate depressive symptoms and contribute to a cycle of self-fulfilling prophecies.
2. Social Anxiety and Self-Presentation: The fear of negative evaluation in social situations
is a common feature of social anxiety disorder, and it can also co-occur with depression.
Concerns about self-presentation in the context of social anxiety can exacerbate
depressive symptoms, as individuals may avoid social interactions to reduce the anxiety
associated with self-presentation.
 Hopelessness theory of depression

The Hopelessness Theory of depression is a psychological theory that seeks to explain the development of depression,
particularly in response to negative life events. This theory was originally developed by Lyn Yvonne Abramson, Lauren B.
Alloy, and Lynne H. Hogan in the 1980s.
Negative Life Events: The theory posits that negative life events, such as the loss of a job, a romantic breakup, or a
significant failure, can trigger feelings of hopelessness. These events are referred to as "stressors."
Attributional Style: The way individuals explain and interpret these negative life events is crucial. According to the theory,
people with a specific attributional style are more vulnerable to developing hopelessness, which can, in turn, lead to
depression. This attributional style is characterized by three main dimensions:
a. Internal: The tendency to attribute negative events to personal factors, such as incompetence or lack of ability.
b. Stable: The belief that these negative factors are enduring and unlikely to change over time
c. Global: The belief that these negative factors affect multiple areas of one's life, not just the specific situation in
question.
 Hopelessness theory of depression

Hopelessness: When individuals with this attributional style encounter negative life events, they are more likely to view
these events as permanent, pervasive, and their fault. This perception of hopelessness is a central component of the
theory.
Depression: The hopelessness created by this attributional style and negative life events can lead to the development of
depressive symptoms and, in some cases, clinical depression.
In summary, the Hopelessness Theory of depression suggests that when individuals interpret negative life events in a
particular way (internal, stable, and global), they are more likely to experience feelings of hopelessness, which, in turn,
can lead to the development of depression. This theory highlights the role of cognitive processes and cognitive
vulnerabilities in the onset of depressive symptoms and provides insights into how individual interpretations of life
events can affect mental health.
 Learned helplessness theory

The Learned Helplessness Theory of depression, developed by psychologists Martin Seligman and Steven Maier in the late 1960s
and 1970s, provides insights into the psychological mechanisms that can lead to depressive symptoms. The theory is based on a
series of animal experiments and was later extended to humans. It suggests that when individuals perceive a lack of control over
their life circumstances, they may develop feelings of helplessness, which can contribute to depression.
1. Uncontrollable Negative Events: The theory begins with the exposure to uncontrollable and negative life events or stressors.
These stressors can be situations where individuals face adversity, stress, or adversity that they believe they have no control
over.
2. Attribution of the Lack of Control: In response to these uncontrollable events, individuals may attribute their inability to
control or change the situation to internal, stable, and global factors. These attributions suggest that they see the lack of
control as a reflection of their own inadequacy, the situation as unlikely to change, and the helplessness as affecting
multiple areas of their life (internal, stable, global).
3. Learned Helplessness: Over time, individuals may learn to feel helpless and powerless in the face of challenges, even when
they might have the ability to change their circumstances. This learned helplessness can lead to feelings of hopelessness,
worthlessness, and despair.
4. Depression: The theory posits that this persistent sense of helplessness and hopelessness can contribute to the
development of depressive symptoms. When individuals feel they have no control over their lives, they are more vulnerable
to experiencing symptoms of depression.
 Learned helplessness theory

The Learned Helplessness Theory highlights the role of cognitive processes and perceived control in the
development of depression. It suggests that individuals who perceive themselves as lacking control over
their life circumstances are more likely to develop feelings of helplessness, which can be a precursor to
depressive symptoms.
It's important to note that while the Learned Helplessness Theory has provided valuable insights into
the relationship between perceived control and depression, it is just one of several theories used to
explain the development of depressive symptoms. Depression is a complex and multifaceted condition,
and its etiology often involves a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental
factors.
 Attribution styles in depression

Attributional styles in depression refer to the way individuals with depressive tendencies attribute causes for events
or outcomes in their lives. These attributions can be classified into three key dimensions: internal/external,
stable/unstable, and global/specific. Attributional styles in depression are often characterized by a tendency to make
negative and pessimistic attributions.
 Internal vs. External: This dimension refers to whether individuals attribute the causes of events to factors within
themselves (internal) or external to themselves (external).
• Internal Attributions: In the context of depression, individuals with an internal attributional style tend to
attribute negative events or outcomes to their own personal qualities, such as incompetence, inadequacy, or lack
of ability. For example, if they fail a test, they might blame it on their perceived lack of intelligence.
• External Attributions: Conversely, those with an external attributional style attribute negative events or
outcomes to external factors, such as luck, fate, or situational circumstances. They might attribute their test
failure to a difficult exam rather than their own abilities.
 Attribution styles in depression

 Stable vs. Unstable: This dimension relates to whether individuals see the causes of events as enduring over time
(stable) or as temporary and changeable (unstable).
• Stable Attributions: In a depressive attributional style, stable attributions for negative events involve seeing the
causes as long-lasting and unchangeable. For example, someone with this style might believe that their lack of
intelligence is a stable trait that cannot be improved.
• Unstable Attributions: Individuals with an unstable attributional style see the causes of negative events as
temporary and changeable. They may believe that a temporary setback in a test can be attributed to lack of
preparation but can be improved with better study habits.
 Attribution styles in depression

 Global vs. Specific: This dimension pertains to whether attributions are generalized across multiple areas of life
(global) or specific to particular situations (specific).
• Global Attributions: A depressive attributional style with global attributions involves attributing negative events
to inadequacies that apply to various aspects of one's life. For example, someone might believe that their
incompetence applies not just to academics but to all areas of life.
• Specific Attributions: Conversely, specific attributions attribute negative events to inadequacies that are limited
to particular situations or contexts. Someone with this style might believe they are inadequate in academic
settings but not in other areas of life.

In individuals with depressive attributions, a typical pattern is to make internal, stable, and global attributions for
negative events and external, unstable, and specific attributions for positive events. This negative attributional style
can contribute to the development and persistence of depressive symptoms because it leads to a perception of
helplessness and hopelessness.
Biases in clinical decision making

1. Confirmation Bias:
1. Description: Clinicians may tend to favor information that confirms their preexisting beliefs or
hypotheses and ignore or downplay information that contradicts them.
2. Impact: This bias can lead to premature closure of diagnoses and limit consideration of
alternative explanations.

2. Anchoring Bias:
1. Description: Clinicians may rely too heavily on the first piece of information (the "anchor")
encountered when making decisions.
2. Impact: Anchoring can lead to insufficient adjustment of subsequent information, potentially
resulting in inaccurate diagnoses or treatment plans.
Biases in clinical decision making

1. Availability Bias:
1. Description: Clinicians may give more weight to readily available information, such as recent
cases or vivid patient stories, rather than considering a broader range of evidence.
2. Impact: This bias can lead to overestimating the likelihood of certain conditions based on
memorable cases rather than statistical prevalence.

2. Overconfidence Bias:
1. Description: Clinicians may overestimate their own abilities, knowledge, or the accuracy of
their clinical judgments.
2. Impact: Overconfidence can lead to excessive risk-taking or a failure to seek additional
information or consultation when needed.
Biases in clinical decision making

1. Sunk Cost Fallacy:

1. Description: Clinicians may be reluctant to change their initial diagnosis or treatment plan, even
when new evidence suggests it is no longer the best course of action, due to the perceived
investment of time and resources in the initial decision.
2. Impact: This bias can lead to persistence in ineffective treatments and delayed adjustments to
care.
2. Base Rate Neglect:
1. Description: Clinicians may ignore the overall prevalence of a condition in a population and
instead focus on specific case details.
2. Impact: Neglecting base rates can lead to overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis, as clinicians may
misjudge the likelihood of a condition based on individual patient characteristics.
Biases in clinical decision making

1. Representativeness Bias:
1. Description: Clinicians may judge the likelihood of a diagnosis based on how well a patient fits a
prototype or stereotypical image of a particular condition.
2. Impact: This bias can lead to misdiagnosis when patients deviate from expected presentations.
2. Hindsight Bias:
1. Description: Clinicians may perceive events as having been predictable after they have already
occurred.
2. Impact: This bias can lead to an overestimation of the ability to predict outcomes, potentially
hindering the ability to learn from mistakes or unexpected events.
Social anxiety treatment with social
psychological principles

Social anxiety disorder involves intense fear and avoidance of social situations due to the
fear of being scrutinized, judged, or embarrassed. Social psychology, as a field, contributes to
the understanding and treatment of social anxiety. Here are some methods used to treat
social anxiety based on principles from social psychology.
 Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
• Description: CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach for social anxiety. It focuses on
identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and beliefs related to social
situations.
• Social Psychology Connection: CBT incorporates cognitive restructuring, which aligns
with social psychology principles by addressing distorted thought processes and changing
maladaptive beliefs about social interactions.
 Social anxiety treatment with social
psychological principles

 Exposure Therapy:
• Description: Exposure therapy involves gradually and systematically exposing individuals to
feared social situations. This exposure allows them to confront and overcome anxiety.
• Social Psychology Connection: Exposure therapy is grounded in the principles of classical and
operant conditioning, which are concepts within social psychology. By exposing individuals to
anxiety-provoking stimuli, it aims to weaken the association between social situations and fear.
 Social Skills Training:
• Description: Social skills training helps individuals develop and enhance interpersonal skills,
communication, and assertiveness in social situations.
• Social Psychology Connection: This approach aligns with social psychological concepts related
to social influence, communication, and interpersonal dynamics. Improving social skills
contributes to more positive interactions and reduces anxiety.
 Social anxiety treatment with social
psychological principles
 Mindfulness-Based Interventions:
• Description: Mindfulness techniques, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), help
individuals focus on the present moment without judgment. Mindfulness can be applied to manage
anxiety and improve overall well-being.
• Social Psychology Connection: Mindfulness aligns with social psychological principles by promoting
awareness of social interactions, reducing automatic negative judgments, and fostering a non-
judgmental attitude toward oneself and others.
 Group Therapy:
• Description: Group therapy involves individuals with social anxiety participating in therapeutic
activities together. It provides a supportive environment for practicing social skills and sharing
experiences.
• Social Psychology Connection: Group therapy leverages social influence and social support, key
concepts in social psychology. The group dynamic allows for the observation and modeling of social
behaviors, reducing feelings of isolation.
 Social anxiety treatment with social
psychological principles

➢ Cognitive Restructuring:
• Description: Cognitive restructuring involves identifying and challenging irrational thoughts and beliefs
related to social situations, replacing them with more realistic and positive ones.
• Social Psychology Connection: This technique aligns with social psychology principles by addressing
cognitive distortions and biases in thinking, which can contribute to the maintenance of social anxiety.
➢ Virtual Reality Therapy:
• Description: Virtual reality exposure therapy exposes individuals to simulated social situations in a
controlled environment. This approach allows for repeated exposure and practice in a realistic setting.
• Social Psychology Connection: Virtual reality therapy capitalizes on the principles of social cognition
and social influence. It provides a safe space for individuals to practice and generalize social skills.
 Depression treatment with social
psychological principles

The treatment of depression often involves a combination of therapeutic approaches, and

incorporating social psychological principles can be beneficial. Social psychology focuses on how
individuals think, feel, and behave in social situations, and considering these principles can
enhance the understanding and treatment of depression. Here are some ways in which social
psychological principles can be applied in the treatment of depression.
 Stigma Reduction:
• Principle: Social stigma associated with mental health conditions can contribute to feelings of
shame and isolation.
• Application: Therapeutic interventions can include discussions about mental health stigma,
challenging stigmatizing beliefs, and promoting awareness and understanding. By addressing
and reducing stigma, individuals may feel more comfortable seeking help and discussing their
struggles openly.
 Depression treatment with social
psychological principles

 Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT):

• Principle: IPT is a time-limited therapy that focuses on improving interpersonal relationships
and communication skills.
• Application: IPT explicitly integrates social psychological principles by addressing the role of
interpersonal conflicts, role transitions, and grief in contributing to depression. It helps
individuals develop healthier patterns of relating to others.
 Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Social Situations:
• Principle: CBT principles can be extended to address cognitive distortions related to social
interactions and relationships.
• Application: Therapists can work with individuals to identify and challenge negative thought
patterns specific to social situations. This can include addressing social anxiety, negative self-
perceptions in social contexts, and improving interpersonal problem-solving skills.
 Rational emotive behavior therapy

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) developed by Albert Ellis in
the 1950s. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and changing
irrational beliefs can lead to healthier emotional and behavioral outcomes. REBT is designed to help individuals
identify and challenge irrational beliefs and replace them with more rational and adaptive thoughts.
 ABC Model:
• A (Activating Event): This represents a situation or event that triggers an emotional response.
• B (Beliefs): These are the thoughts, beliefs, and interpretations about the activating event. Ellis identified two
types of beliefs: rational and irrational.
• C (Consequence): The emotional and behavioral consequences that result from the individual's beliefs about the
activating event.
 Rational emotive behavior therapy

 Rational and Irrational Beliefs:

• Rational Beliefs: These are beliefs that are flexible, logical, and helpful in achieving positive outcomes.
• Irrational Beliefs: These are rigid, illogical, and unrealistic beliefs that contribute to negative emotional responses
and maladaptive behaviors.
➢ Disputing Irrational Beliefs:
▪ REBT emphasizes the importance of disputing and challenging irrational beliefs. This involves questioning the validity and
usefulness of irrational thoughts and replacing them with more rational alternatives.
➢ Effectiveness of Rational Beliefs:
▪ REBT encourages individuals to adopt more effective and rational beliefs, which are more likely to lead to positive emotions
and adaptive behaviors.
 Rational emotive behavior therapy

1. Mindfulness and Acceptance:

1. While the primary focus is on changing irrational beliefs, REBT may also incorporate mindfulness and acceptance strategies
to help individuals tolerate and accept certain aspects of themselves or their situations.
2. Behavioral Techniques:
1. In addition to cognitive strategies, REBT may involve behavioral techniques to help individuals change maladaptive
behaviors associated with their irrational beliefs.

3. The Three Basic Musts:

1. Ellis identified three common irrational beliefs, often referred to as the "Three Basic Musts":
1. I must do well and win the approval of others.
2. Other people must treat me fairly and kindly, and I must be treated fairly by the world.
3. I must get what I want when I want it, and I must not get what I don't want.