What is the focus of the REBT Double-Standard Dispute?

• A. Ask whether the client would hold another person to the same standard or label for doing the same thing.
• B. Label self-criticism and not the behavior.
• C. Ignore the standard.
• D. Suggest exposure to test the belief.

Answer: (A)

The focus here is on challenging inconsistent rules you apply to yourself versus others. In this REBT move, the therapist asks you to consider whether you would hold another person to the same standard or label for doing the same thing. If you wouldn’t apply that harsh rule to someone else, it reveals an irrational double standard you’re using for yourself. Naming and examining that discrepancy helps you see why the belief is not reasonable and paves the way to substitute a fairer rule. The other options aren’t about exposing that inconsistency—labeling self-criticism is a different tactic, ignoring the standard isn’t a disputing move, and suggesting exposure tests a belief through behavior rather than directly targeting the self-imposed rule.