What is ACT in psychotherapy?

• A. A psychoanalytic approach focusing on childhood conflicts.
• B. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, a behavioral approach focusing on acceptance of thoughts and commitment to values-based actions.
• C. A pharmacological treatment using antipsychotics.
• D. A cognitive technique focusing on thought suppression.

Answer: (B)

ACT stands for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, a behavioral approach that centers on accepting thoughts and feelings rather than trying to eliminate them, and taking action guided by personal values. The aim is to increase psychological flexibility—the ability to stay present, open up to experiences, and commit to actions that reflect what matters most, even when distressing thoughts or emotions are present. Key ideas include recognizing thoughts as mental events (defusion), practicing nonjudgmental acceptance, staying in contact with the present moment, seeing the self as a perspective observing experiences, clarifying values, and taking committed steps toward valued behavior. This differs from freudian-style psychoanalysis, which focuses on childhood conflicts; from pharmacological treatment, which uses medications; and from cognitive techniques that primarily aim to change or suppress thoughts. ACT emphasizes living a meaningful life despite internal experiences.