In Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), the components labeled ABC describe which sequence?

• A. Activating Event; Beliefs; Coping Techniques
• B. Activating Event; Consequences; Beliefs
• C. Beliefs; Activating Event; Coping Techniques
• D. Coping Techniques; Beliefs; Activating Event

Answer: (A)

In REBT, the sequence shows how the trigger leads to an inner interpretation, which then leads to emotional and behavioral results. The activating event is what happens externally or internally that starts the process. The beliefs are your thoughts or interpretations about that event—the judgments, assumptions, or irrational ideas you hold. It’s these beliefs, not the event itself, that shape how you feel and behave. The consequences are the emotional responses and actions that follow from those beliefs. So the standard order is Activating Event → Beliefs → Consequences.

Coping techniques are used as tools to manage or change the response, but they don’t form the third component of the basic ABC sequence. In practice, you might later dispute irrational beliefs and adopt more rational ones, which can alter the emotional and behavioral consequences. For example, missing a deadline (activating event) might trigger the belief “I’m worthless,” leading to anxiety or withdrawal (consequences). Disputing that belief and adopting a more constructive view can reduce those negative outcomes.