Muscularity rationality: An examination of the use of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) upon exercisers at risk of muscle dysmorphia

Research in the area of body image suggests that muscularity dissatisfaction is a prominent concern among men and women. At its apex, this manifests into convoluted debilitating disorder termed muscle dysmorphia (MD), characterised by marked preoccupation with ones (subjective) leanness inadequacy. Prevention MD critical, however, empirical evidence informing intervention protocols are profoundly scarce. The principal aim study was to examine effectiveness one-to-one Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) intervention, comprising five, 60-min sessions, decreasing symptomatology, irrational beliefs increasing unconditional self-acceptance mixed-sex cohort four exercisers at-risk MD. A single-case, staggered multiple-baseline across participant A-B design adopted effects REBT. Visual statistical analyses, social validation data, indicated reductions MD, beliefs, increases all participants from pre-post phases, upheld at 6-month follow-up. This highlights potential role rational onset maintenance first report application CBT approach symptomology, has demonstrated use REBT as preventative for individuals risk Practitioners working should take benefit-focussed support developing well problem-focussed reducing beliefs. • Athletes may be greater (MD) symptomology. brought about intervention. results, were maintained six-month follow up. those adopt develop USA,