Distinguishing CBT from REBT: Key Differences

Key Difference – CBT vs REBT

CBT and REBT are two types of psychotherapy that are extensively used to treat individuals who suffer from mental problems. CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while REBT stands for Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. CBT should be understood as an umbrella term that is used for psychotherapy, whereas REBT is one of the earlier forms of psychotherapy that influenced the formation of CBT.

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapeutic method used to treat people who suffer from mental problems, such as depression and anxiety disorders. The main idea of CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and behavior are all interconnected. Psychologists specifically highlight the role of our thoughts, believing that they can have a great impact on our behavior and feelings. CBT helps individuals reduce psychological distress by identifying and understanding negative thoughts and behavior. It also assists the person in finding alternative forms that will reduce psychological distress and improve overall well-being.

What is REBT?

Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) was developed by American psychologist Albert Ellis in 1955. According to Ellis, people have different assumptions about themselves and the world around them. These assumptions play a major role in how individuals act and react in different situations. Ellis highlights that some individuals have assumptions that are negative and can destroy individual happiness. These are termed as basic irrational assumptions. Through REBT, individuals are taught how to overcome emotional and behavioral distress by comprehending the irrational assumptions. Ellis proposes the ABC Model, also known as the ABC technique of irrational beliefs, which has three components: the activating event (the event that causes distress), belief (the irrational assumption), and consequence (the emotional and behavioral distress that the individual feels). REBT is not only for mental disorders but is also used to help individuals achieve their targets and cope with difficult situations.

Key Takeaways

• CBT is an umbrella term for psychotherapy, while REBT is a specific therapeutic method that influenced the formation of CBT.
• The main idea of CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and behavior are all interconnected, and our thoughts can influence our behavior and emotions in a negative manner.
• REBT focuses on the idea that people have irrational assumptions that lead to psychological distress and teaches individuals how to overcome emotional and behavioral distress by comprehending the irrational assumptions.