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Training in RET: Disputational strategies

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Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe a training exercise designed to systematically develop the skill of cognitive disputation. In accomplishing this purpose, DiGiuseppe's conceptual framework for generating disputations is briefly summarized. Then the conceptual framework is applied to a single maladaptive belief of a young woman who had been sexually molested over a number of years during childhood. The application of the conceptual framework resulted in sixteen disputes for a single maladaptive belief. Additionally, several empirical evaluations of the efficacy of conceptual approach are presented. In the case of novice RET therapists, the application of the conceptual strategy resulted in a significant increase in the number of different disputes on the part of the therapists. In the case of experienced RET therapists, the application of the conceptual strategy resulted in increases in the therapists' sense of self efficacy at generating a variety of disputes (albeit not a significant increase). Finally other advantages of the conceptual framework are discussed.

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Kopec, A.M., Beal, D. & Digiuseppe, R. Training in RET: Disputational strategies. J Rational-Emot Cognitive-Behav Ther 12, 47–60 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02354489

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