Making a difference: a review and auto-ethnographic account of applying Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) in policing

Jones, Jennifer and Turner, Martin ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1975-5561 (2023) Making a difference: a review and auto-ethnographic account of applying Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) in policing. Journal of Rational - Emotive and Cognitive - Behavior Therapy, 41 (2). pp. 334-361. ISSN 0894-9085

Preview

Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (1MB) | Preview

Abstract

The current article provides a review and auto-ethnographic account of the application of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) in a police setting. After reviewing literature that explores the application of both REBT in policing to date, the focus will then turn to a reflection of the personal experiences of applying the principles of REBT theory in the context of policing. This commentary will highlight the broad applicability of REBT across the many challenging facets of policing. From stress management and resilience enhancement to optimal performance and team cohesion, this article posits that REBT theory provides an accessible foundational framework on which individuals, teams, groups, and systems can perform effectively. The nuanced application of the approach in the face of exposure to traumatic events and cultural challenges within policing will also be discussed.