Title: Irrational Beliefs | Counseling Center
Headings: Irrational Beliefs
Irrational Beliefs
Handling Irrational Beliefs from Tools for Personal Growth (1999-2010), by James J. Messina, Ph.D.
I. What are irrational beliefs?
II. What are some examples of irrational beliefs?
About Yourself:
Irrational beliefs (negative) about others:
Irrational beliefs on other topics
How can we recognize irrational beliefs? Irrational beliefs can be present if we:
What are the benefits of refuting our irrational beliefs?
By refuting our irrational beliefs we are able to:
Steps to take in refuting an irrational belief
Step 1: Is your thinking and problem solving ability being blocked by an irrational belief? Consider a specific problem as you answer the following questions:
Step 2: If you have answered yes to any or all of the questions in Step 1, you are probably facing a problem or situation in which a blocking irrational belief is clouding your thinking. The next thing to do is to try to identify the blocking irrational belief. Answer the following questions in your journal:
Step 3: Once you have identified the blocking belief in Step 2, test its rationality. Answer the following questions about the belief, yes or no.
Step 4: Once you have determined that the blocking belief is irrational, you are ready to refute this irrational belief. Respond to the following questions in your journal:

Content: Conclusions about life that we have developed over time, living in an irrational environment not identified as being irrational (e.g., beliefs developed as a member of a high-stress family). Standards by which we were reared and from which we learned how to act, what to believe, and how to express or experience feelings. When followed, however, these standards do not result in a satisfactory resolution of our current problems. Ritualistic ways by which we pursue our relationships with others, resulting in nonproductive relationships and increased emotional stress. Outmoded, unproductive, unrealistic expectations exacted on ourselves and/or others, guaranteed to be unattainable and to result in continuing negative self-concepts. II. What are some examples of irrational beliefs? About Yourself: I do not deserve positive attention from others. I should never burden others with my problems or fears.