Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT)

Abstract

Rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) is thought to be the first cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and was developed by Albert Ellis in the 1950s. REBT is predicated on the notion that it is our beliefs about the self, others, and the world that determine how we respond to life's adversities. Specifically, irrational beliefs beget unhealthy emotions and maladaptive behaviours, whilst rational beliefs beget healthy emotions and adaptive behaviours. This chapter details the main theoretical underpinning of REBT. In recent years, most notably since 2013, sport psychologists have been applying and testing REBT across many sporting contexts. The past 10 years have been very fruitful for REBT in sport settings, and in this chapter, a timely review of the literature is provided. A hypothetical case study of an athlete who presents with issues related to anxiety and choking is then undertaken. The case study is used to portray how REBT is typically applied in a one-to-one setting, using a hypothetical transcript, and example tasks and activities. The author outlines the practical considerations when applying REBT and explores new ideas that have emerged within REBT in the context of sport.