Abstract
Behavioral activation (BA) is an evidence-based brief and effective treatment for depression. This article explains BA, its procedures, and its relationship to recreational therapy (RT). According to BA theory, depression leads to lives reduced in ability to gain rewards from the environment. BA aims to activate clients to engage in activities that increase rewards, reduce negativity, and improve subjective well-being (SWB). This approach is consistent with RT practice, and expressly identified in Austin’s Health Protection/Health Promotion Model. BA has been shown to be effective in clinical depression programs across age groups, as well as in other diagnoses including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorder, and substance use disorder. The basic BA orientation of engaging in activity and resumption of a pleasing and meaningful experiences is highly consistent with RT practice, and BA should be a tool in the RT modalities toolbox.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
