ABSTRACT
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) is a psychotherapeutic intervention based on the premise that when faced with adversity (e.g. failure, rejection, or poor treatment) it is one’s beliefs that determine the functionality of their response. Accordingly, irrational beliefs lead to unhealthy negative emotions and maladaptive behaviours that hinder goal achievement, whereas rational beliefs lead to healthy and functional alternatives that facilitate goal attainment. This chapter first introduces REBT, detailing the distinction between irrational and rational beliefs and how this affects an athlete’s ability to overcome adversity and attain their respective goals. Second, this chapter presents a case example recounting the application of a one-to-one REBT intervention with a 15-year-old male cricketer. Finally, we conclude by providing best practice guidelines for the application of REBT in youth sport.
