A test of RET theory using an RET theory-based mood induction procedure: The rationality of thinking rationally

Affective consequences of rational-emotive therapy (RET) theory-based self-statements were assessed in a manner which controlled for demand characteristics. Subjects exposed to irrational self-statements evidenced more subjective anxiety, more automatic negative thoughts, and greater physiological arousal than all other subjects. Subjects exposed to type A self-statements evidenced greater physiological arousal than subjects exposed to rational self-statements, who evidenced greater physiological arousal than subjects exposed to neutral statements. Finally, subjects exposed to rational self-statements were the only group to decrease in physiological arousal over time. These results, while generally consistent with RET theory, indicate that some modifications may be necessary.