The Role of Rational Beliefs in Promoting Mental Well-Being: A Validation of the REBT’s Psychological Health Model

Abstract

This study aimed to test the validity of the psychological health model of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) in promoting mental well-being, with a particular focus on understanding the positive and adaptive emotional consequences of rational beliefs. A total of 542 participants (67.9% females), from diverse occupational backgrounds in Turkey, aged between 18 and 59 years completed questionnaires about rational beliefs and mental well-being. The findings indicate a positive relationship between rational beliefs and mental well-being. Specifically, non-awfulizing and unconditional self-acceptance beliefs mediate the relationship between preference beliefs and mental well-being. This study provides empirical evidence supporting the model of psychological health proposed by REBT, emphasizing the important role of specific rational beliefs in promoting mental well-being. The current findings provide important implications for practitioners who wish to integrate clinical psychology with positive psychology by emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of rational beliefs in the promotion of mental well-being.