The “ABCs” of REBT II: A preliminary study of errors and confusions made by REBT therapists

In this study, 19 REBT therapists from the Albert Ellis Institute’s referral list from a sample of 83 provided a specific “ABC” assessment of a problem and its solution that they would teach a class of counselling graduate students. This material was analysed for evidence of errors and confusions with respect to the “ABCs” of REBT. A total of 81 of such errors/confusions were found with most being made about beliefs at “B”, particularly about rational beliefs. A variety of errors and confusions were also made about “A” and emotional “Cs”. It was suggested that one way of addressing this state of affairs would be for the Albert Ellis Institute to introduce a theory test which applicants for Fellowship and Associate Fellowship status would have to pass before being awarded such status. Weaknesses of the current study were noted and suggestions for future research made.