Therapist Materials for Countering Emotion-Driven Behaviors

Abstract

The session in this chapter focuses on emotion-driven behaviors (EDBs) intended to escape from emotion. Such behaviors can be problematic when used exclusively for many emotions; when they become a self-perpetuating cycle; when they interfere with the opportunity to learn other healthy coping methods; and when they have negative physical consequences. The homework for this session is for the client to prepare to substitute opposite actions in place of the problematic EDBs. There are opportunities in this session to use mild imaginal exposures. The purpose of these exercises is to get in touch with urges, in order to examine the types of behaviors that happen in response to strong emotions, as well as the antecedents, consequences, and the way that moment felt to that client. This kind of insight-building exercise is extremely important therapeutic work for the clients to be doing.