ABSTRACT
B. F. Skinner spoke of the complexity of behaviour because it is not a static object, but rather an ongoing changing, fluid process. Using a stream as a metaphorical lens through which to view behaviour, it makes less sense to target the constituent components of the stream itself for change, but rather target change in the environment through which the stream flows. This chapter focuses on altering the context around which the behavioural stream is occurring, focusing on the process, rather than the content of the stream. When speaking of thoughts, feelings, sensations, and behaviours, it could be easy to view these as separate component parts that interact with one another. Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) is focused on changing the context within which behaviour occurs, so that behaviour can be moved in a direction that is chosen. A common saying in ACT is that the intervention is to help clients feel better, rather than feel better.
