Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Behavior Analysts: A Practice Guide from Theory to Treatment

The ACT handbook provides an in-depth exploration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles and research, highlighting the development of 6 core behavioral processes. Written by leading experts, it draws on decades of research to offer practical strategies for promoting mental well-being.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) is a powerful and evidence-based psychological approach that focuses on the intentional development of six core behavioral processes. These processes include Values, Committed Action, Acceptance, Defusion, Self-as-Content, and Present Moment Awareness. Developed by leading experts in the field, ACT draws on decades of research to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these processes interact and contribute to psychological well-being.

Values: Values are the fundamental beliefs and values that guide our behavior and decision-making. They provide us with a sense of purpose and meaning in life and help us to prioritize our actions and commitments. ACT emphasizes the importance of identifying and exploring our values, as well as developing a sense of coherence and alignment between our values and our actions.

Committed Action: Committed Action involves taking action in the service of our values and goals. It involves setting clear intentions and taking steps toward achieving them, even in the face of obstacles and setbacks. ACT helps individuals develop the skills and motivation to take committed action, including developing effective goal-setting strategies, building resilience, and overcoming procrastination.

Acceptance: Acceptance is the practice of embracing and accepting our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, without judgment or resistance. It involves recognizing that our thoughts and feelings are a natural part of the human experience and that they do not define us. ACT emphasizes the importance of accepting difficult emotions and experiences, as well as developing the skills to respond to them in a healthy and productive way.

Defusion: Defusion is the process of separating ourselves from our thoughts and emotions, particularly those that are painful or distressing. It involves recognizing that our thoughts and emotions are not permanent or fixed, but rather fleeting and subject to change. ACT helps individuals develop the skills to observe their thoughts and emotions without getting caught up in them, and to respond to them in a more neutral and detached way.

Self-as-Content: Self-as-Content involves developing a sense of self-acceptance and self-worth. It involves recognizing that our sense of self is not fixed or permanent, but rather is constantly evolving and changing. ACT emphasizes the importance of developing a positive self-image and a sense of self-compassion, as well as developing the skills to manage negative self-talk and self-criticism.

Present Moment Awareness: Present Moment Awareness involves developing a sense of mindfulness and present-moment focus. It involves recognizing that the present moment is the only moment that we have control over, and that our past and future are both uncertain and beyond our control. ACT emphasizes the importance of developing the skills to be fully present in the moment, to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment, and to respond to them in a way that is consistent with our values and goals.

The ACT has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of psychological disorders, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. It is particularly effective at helping individuals develop the skills to manage their emotions, build resilience, and live more fulfilling lives.

In conclusion, the ACT is a powerful and evidence-based psychological approach that focuses on the intentional development of six core behavioral processes. These processes include Values, Committed Action, Acceptance, Defusion, Self-as-Content, and Present Moment Awareness. Developed by leading experts in the field, ACT draws on decades of research to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these processes interact and contribute to psychological well-being. If you are struggling with psychological issues, it may be worth considering the ACT as a potential treatment option.

Weight: 730g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032168098