In REBT, please explain the inter-relationship between the ABC Model and LFT.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The REBT model of addiction emphasizes the dynamics of irrational beliefs related to abstinence combined with a low frustration tolerance (LFT) (DiGiuseppe & McInerney, 1990). REBT argues that most SUD clients struggle with LFT (Ellis, McInerney, DiGiuseppe, & Yeager, 1988). Clients can overcome LFT by disputing irrational beliefs producing distress (e.g., anxiety due to LFT) using the ABCs of behavior, where A is the activating event. In the wedding example just referenced, this would be the client deciding to be at the bar but not drinking alcohol. B is the irrational belief system the client holds in regard to the activating event. In this case, “I cannot be around alcohol without drinking,” or “I’m too early in my recovery to manage my urges.” Thus, C is the consequence of these irrational and absolute beliefs. This consequence is the experienced LFT symptoms, such as anxiety (Archer & McCarthy, 2007; Ellis, 1982, 1985).