Harris, Steven; Davies, Martin F. and Dryden, Windy. 2006. An experimental test of a core REBT hypothesis: evidence that irrational beliefs lead to physiological as well as psychological arousal. Journal of Rational-Emotive and Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy, 24(2), pp. 101-111. ISSN 0894-9085 (Print) 1573-6563 (Online) [Article]

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Abstract or Description

While numerous studies support Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy and Theory (REBT), they tend to be limited by their use of correlational designs, simulated scenarios and self-report measures. This study tested a core REBT hypothesis in an experimental design using multiple pshysiological as well as psychological measures. Ninety patients from a medical practice were placed in a real-life stressful situation while holding either a rational, an irrational, or an indifference belief. Those holding a rational belief reported the greatest increase in anxiety. Of particular significance, those holding a rational belief showed a decrease in systolic blood pressure whereas those holding an irrational belief showed an increase (diastolic blood pressure increased in both conditions). These results not only support the core REBT hypothesis, but also suggest a way to differentiate between beliefs and emotions by measuring physiological as well as psychological changes.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number (DOI):	10/1007/210942-005-0019-5
Keywords:	REBT; physiological arousal; emotions; beliefs
Departments, Centres and Research Units:	Psychology
Dates:	Date Event 8 June 2006 Published
Item ID:	20
Date Deposited:	05 Aug 2008 15:39
Last Modified:	25 Sep 2023 10:08
Peer Reviewed:	Yes, this version has been peer-reviewed.
URI:	https://research.gold.ac.uk/id/eprint/20

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