Rational-Emotive Disputing and the Five-Factor Model: Personality Dimensions of the Ellis Emotional Efficiency Inventory

This study investigates the relationship between three types of disputes used in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and the five personality domains of the Five Factor Model of Personality. A sample of 194 subjects was assessed for the use of three categories of REBT disputes using the Ellis Emotional Efficiency Inventory (EEEI), and for the Big Five personality dimensions using the NEO-Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). Disputing against awfulizing was found to correlate inversely with Neuroticism. Disputing against self-downing was found to correlate positively with both Extraversion and Conscientiousness. Disputing against low frustration tolerance was found to correlate positively with Agreeableness and Openness. Implications for REBT practice and research are discussed