Final answer:
DBT and ACT are third-wave behavior therapies distinguished by their integration of mindfulness and acceptance with traditional cognitive-behavioral approaches. DBT emphasizes skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, while ACT focuses on increasing psychological flexibility through core processes such as cognitive diffusion and values-based action.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are considered third-wave behavior therapies that emerged in the late 20th century. These therapies integrate traditional cognitive-behavioral techniques with newer strategies such as mindfulness and acceptance.
DBT is known for its focus on helping individuals develop skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT also emphasizes the dialectical process, which involves balancing acceptance and change to improve psychological well-being.
ACT, on the other hand, is characterized by its core processes, including cognitive defusion, acceptance, mindfulness, self-as-context, values, and committed action. ACT aims to increase psychological flexibility, helping individuals to live in accordance with their values even in the presence of difficult thoughts and feelings.
Both DBT and ACT represent significant advancements in the field of psychotherapy and are distinct from traditional therapies due to their incorporation of mindfulness practices and their focus on acceptance and committed action as integral parts of treatment.