Which statement best describes the D step in REBT's ABC model?

Which statement best describes the D step in REBT's ABC model?

• A. Accepting the irrational beliefs at B
• B. Reframing the activating event
• C. Disputing the irrational behavior at B
• D. Avoiding the irrational beliefs

Answer: (C)

The D step focuses on challenging the beliefs that tie an activating event to your emotional response. In REBT, your feelings aren’t caused directly by what happens; they come from the meanings you attach to what happens. The D step is the deliberate process of disputing those irrational beliefs—examining whether they’re logically sound, backed by evidence, and practically useful. By questioning and weakening these beliefs, you pave the way for adopting more rational, flexible ways of thinking, which then leads to healthier emotions and behaviors. For example, if you fail a test and hold the belief “I must always be perfect, or I’m worthless,” disputing would involve testing that belief: Is perfection really required in every aspect of life? Is failing once truly evidence of worthlessness? What’s a more realistic, constructive stance? Replacing the irrational belief with a more rational one—like “I can learn from this and improve next time”—changes how you feel about the situation and how you act.

The D step focuses on challenging the beliefs that tie an activating event to your emotional response. In REBT, your feelings aren’t caused directly by what happens; they come from the meanings you attach to what happens. The D step is the deliberate process of disputing those irrational beliefs—examining whether they’re logically sound, backed by evidence, and practically useful. By questioning and weakening these beliefs, you pave the way for adopting more rational, flexible ways of thinking, which then leads to healthier emotions and behaviors.

For example, if you fail a test and hold the belief “I must always be perfect, or I’m worthless,” disputing would involve testing that belief: Is perfection really required in every aspect of life? Is failing once truly evidence of worthlessness? What’s a more realistic, constructive stance? Replacing the irrational belief with a more rational one—like “I can learn from this and improve next time”—changes how you feel about the situation and how you act.