Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy vs. Traditional Behaviorism

There are two main differences in Rational emotive behavior therapy and Traditional behaviorism. In REBT the therapy is emotion based and in traditional Behaviorism the therapy focuses on behavior as the basis for healing. Ellis developed REBT to compensate for the inadequacies in the techniques of psychoanalysis and behaviorism. He attributed the he lack in the two theories techniques to their conceptualization of personality and emotional disturbance. This paper will compare and contrast the differences in the theories of Traditional Behaviorism and REBT and the effectiveness in working with procrastination. Procrastination is a subject that was not considered a true disorder until recently. There were negative connotations and assumptions of weakness in the individual on of behavior. This is a very interesting topic because the validity is a little controversial.

When REBT is effective

REBT is effective in various types of disturbances but the main focus is to dispute clients’ Irrational Beliefs (Corey, 2008). According to Jackson, Zahra, and Tian (2012) “Irrational beliefs are stable, illogical and at odds with reality whereas rational beliefs lack stability, are consistent.” (p.1). REBT is effective in reducing dysfunctional responses to situations. There is a preferred specific order in treatment starting with emotional problems first and then go on to address practical problems. There is a strong correlation between irrational beliefs and emotional disturbances such as anxiety and, depression and low self-esteem (Jackson, Zahra, & Tian, 2012).

Ellis suggested that people mistakenly blame external events for unhappiness. He argued, however, that it is our interpretation of these events that truly lies at...

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...ehaviors are there and I constantly make improvements in my life daily. I have a husband that helps keep me on task slightly, and my learning group is wonderful. My daughter will grow up knowing that mommy has to close the door to study or use earplugs to stay on task, and my husband knows that I am not ignoring him, I need quiet or I become distracted.

Conclusion:

REBT utilizes the therapist like a teacher to change and influence the clients’ beliefs. The therapist helps to identify inappropriate thoughts and beliefs sometimes in an abrupt way, in addition to giving the client tools and skills that the client uses on their own to become more rational and accurate in thinking. The client assumes responsibility and in addition to therapy works independently. Behavior therapy is the collaboration of therapist and client to change behaviors.