ABSTRACT
Several early studies suggested that clients who complete CBT self-help homework assignments are more likely to improve than clients who do not. In addition, Burns and Nolen-Hoeksema found that not completing homework assignments was a strong indicator of premature termination in CBT. Thus, the role of homework assignments in REBT and other approaches to cognitive behaviour therapy is not only theoretically important but also, as shown by empirical studies, practically important in engaging clients in therapy and enhancing treatment gains. Consequently, the therapist should pay particular attention to how they can encourage the client to complete homework assignments between sessions. It is crucial that the therapist negotiate homework assignments with the client rather than unilaterally assign (or prescribe) these tasks to them. The therapist should allocate sufficient time to negotiate assignments with the client, mainly at the end of therapy sessions.
