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Differential correlates of irrational belief
F W Wicker1, F C Richardson, F B Lambert
1Dept. of Educational Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, TX 78712, USA.
Journal of Personality Assessment
|April 1, 1985
Summary
This study found irrational beliefs are linked to emotional difficulties. Specific patterns emerged, suggesting the Irrational Belief Test (IBT) measures more than just beliefs, impacting emotional well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Mental Health
Background:
- Irrational beliefs are cognitive distortions that can negatively impact emotional well-being.
- Previous research suggests a link between irrational beliefs and psychological distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between irrational beliefs and various psychological constructs.
- To examine the construct validity of Jones' Irrational Belief Test (IBT).
Main Methods:
- One hundred and ten students completed the Irrational Belief Test (IBT), alongside measures of subjective well-being, affect, alienation, personality, and goal attainment.
- Correlational and canonical composite analyses were employed.
Main Results:
- A general relationship was found between irrational beliefs and emotional difficulty.
- Specific patterns of this relationship varied across different subgroups of IBT scales.
- Correlations supported the construct validity of IBT scales, indicating they also reflect motives, conflicts, affects, and personality characteristics.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest an interdependence between irrational beliefs and other psychological processes.
- The use of IBT subscore composites is recommended over total scores for a more nuanced understanding.