The role of psychological context in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methodology
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17721/BPSY.2026.1(23).1Keywords:
Relational Frame Theory (RFT), functional contextualism, Schema Therapy (ST), pliance, tracking, functional coherence, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Abstract
Contrary to the conventional view that Aaron Beck's classical Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Jeffrey Young's Schema Therapy (ST) focus on the content of psychological phenomena, whereas Steven Hayes' Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) shifts toward their context, a closer examination of their specific methods reveals significant similarities in how context is utilized across all three approaches.
To clarify the role of context in these modalities, this theoretical study employs a comprehensive system of scientific methods to address several key objectives: analyzing the theoretical, methodological, and philosophical foundations of these approaches; uncovering their implicit ideals of psychological well-being; and examining their shared therapeutic mechanisms grounded in context management.
The study identifies fundamental contradictions between logical positivism, which underlies classical CBT and ST, and functional contextualism, the foundation of ACT. Specifically, logical positivism views internal events, such as thoughts, as causes of human behavior and emotion, whereas functional contextualism conceptualizes them as context-driven.
These philosophical discrepancies result in divergent definitions of psychological well-being. Viewed through Relational Frame Theory (RFT), CBT and ST aim for essential coherence – aligning internal structures (e.g., schemas, beliefs) with objective reality. Conversely, ACT focuses on functional coherence, prioritizing the expression of personal values over objective truth.
Nevertheless, contextual interventions are vital to all three approaches. Applying the RFT concept of rule-governed behavior, this paper demonstrates that all examined modalities foster tracking – modifying rigid beliefs, responses, and behaviors by integrating a broader context. Both verbal interventions and experiential methods rely on context to alter cognitive beliefs in CBT or change the function of psychological phenomena in ACT. Similarly, ST utilizes limited reparenting and imaginative rescripting to reshape the interpersonal context, facilitating the correction of early maladaptive schemas.
In conclusion, context engagement serves as a common factor and a shared therapeutic mechanism across all analyzed psychotherapeutic approaches.
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