blog – LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION

Coping with Tragedy:

Tragedy, in a general sense, refers to a disastrous event or a serious misfortune that causes great suffering, distress, or sadness. It doesn’t necessarily follow a pattern of positive assumptions failing, but certain tragedies can indeed be more impactful when they disrupt expectations or plans that were based on positive assumptions.
When people hold positive assumptions about the future or their circumstances, and those assumptions are shattered by unexpected and unfortunate events, it can lead to a heightened sense of disappointment, shock, or grief. The contrast between what was anticipated and what actually occurs can make the impact of a tragedy more profound.
However, it’s important to note that tragedies can also arise without any preceding positive assumptions. They can be unpredictable events that occur independently of our expectations. Life is inherently uncertain, and unforeseen circumstances can disrupt our lives regardless of our outlook on the future.
In coping with tragedy, resilience and adaptability become crucial. It involves the ability to navigate through unexpected challenges and find ways to rebuild and move forward, even when positive assumptions are shattered.
Tragedy, in a general sense, refers to a disastrous event or a serious misfortune that causes great suffering, distress, or sadness. It doesn’t necessarily follow a pattern of positive assumptions failing, but certain tragedies can indeed be more impactful when they disrupt expectations or plans that were based on positive assumptions.
When people hold positive assumptions about the future or their circumstances, and those assumptions are shattered by unexpected and unfortunate events, it can lead to a heightened sense of disappointment, shock, or grief. The contrast between what was anticipated and what actually occurs can make the impact of a tragedy more profound.
However, it’s important to note that tragedies can also arise without any preceding positive assumptions. They can be unpredictable events that occur independently of our expectations. Life is inherently uncertain, and unforeseen circumstances can disrupt our lives regardless of our outlook on the future.
In coping with tragedy, resilience and adaptability become crucial. It involves the ability to navigate through unexpected challenges and find ways to rebuild and move forward, even when positive assumptions are shattered.
Shervan K Shahhian

Group Therapy and the benefits of shared experiences:

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where a small group of individuals meets under the guidance of a trained therapist to discuss and address specific issues or challenges. One of the defining features of group therapy is the shared experiences among participants, which can provide unique benefits that are not always possible in individual therapy.

Here are some key benefits of shared experiences in group therapy:

Validation and Normalization
Hearing others share similar struggles can help individuals realize they are not alone in their experiences.
This validation can reduce feelings of isolation, shame, or stigma.
Learning from Others
Participants gain insights by listening to how others navigate challenges or cope with similar issues.
Group members can serve as role models, demonstrating effective ways to address difficulties.
Emotional Support
Group therapy provides a safe space where members can express feelings and receive empathy from others who genuinely understand their struggles.
The shared emotional support fosters a sense of community and connection.
Development of Social Skills
Group therapy encourages open communication, active listening, and constructive feedback.
Participants can practice interpersonal skills in a supportive environment, which can enhance relationships outside the group.
Different Perspectives
Group members offer diverse perspectives on similar challenges, helping individuals to see their problems from new angles.
This diversity can lead to innovative solutions or a broader understanding of their situations.
Increased Self-Awareness
Sharing experiences and hearing feedback from others can help participants recognize patterns in their behavior or thinking.
This can lead to personal growth and self-improvement.
Cost-Effectiveness
Group therapy is often more affordable than individual therapy, making it accessible to more people.
A Sense of Hope
Observing others’ progress can inspire hope and motivate individuals to continue their own journeys toward healing and growth.
Examples of Issues Addressed in Group Therapy
Anxiety and depression
Grief and loss
Addiction recovery
Relationship challenges
Trauma and PTSD
Coping with chronic illness
Therapist’s Role
The therapist ensures that the group remains a safe, respectful, and productive space. They guide discussions, help manage conflicts, and provide professional insights to complement the shared experiences of the group.

Shervan K Shahhian

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, what is it:

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, what is it:

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that was developed by psychologist Albert Ellis in the 1950s. It is based on the premise that our thoughts, beliefs, and interpretations about events significantly influence our emotions and behaviors. REBT aims to help individuals identify and change irrational beliefs and thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress and dysfunctional behaviors.

The key components of REBT include:

ABC Model:

A stands for Activating event: An external situation or internal thought that triggers emotional and behavioral responses.
B stands for Beliefs: Individuals have beliefs about activating events, and these can be classified into rational or irrational beliefs.
C stands for Consequences: Emotional and behavioral outcomes that result from the interaction between activating events and beliefs.

Irrational Beliefs:

Ellis identified several common irrational beliefs that often lead to emotional disturbances, including demandingness (the belief that things must be a certain way), catastrophizing (expecting the worst possible outcome), and global evaluations (generalizing a situation to one’s overall worth).

Disputing Irrational Beliefs:

REBT emphasizes the importance of disputing and challenging irrational beliefs. This involves questioning the validity and rationality of one’s beliefs and considering alternative, more rational perspectives.

Effective Philosophy:

REBT encourages individuals to adopt a more effective philosophy of life, which includes accepting that life will involve challenges and setbacks, and that it’s possible to tolerate and overcome adversity.

Homework and Behavioral Techniques:

Therapists often assign homework exercises to help individuals practice and reinforce rational thinking patterns. Behavioral techniques may also be incorporated to encourage new, adaptive behaviors.

ABC-DE Model:

Some variations of REBT include an additional step, the D (Disputing) and E (Effects) in the ABC-DE model. After disputing irrational beliefs, individuals explore the effects of changing their beliefs and work on new, more rational ways of thinking.

REBT is considered an effective and practical approach to addressing a wide range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship problems. It places a strong emphasis on individuals taking responsibility for their thoughts and actively working to change irrational beliefs to promote emotional well-being and healthier behaviors.

Shervan K Shahhian

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, what is it:

Rational emotive behavior therapy, what is it:

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a form of psychotherapy that was developed by Albert Ellis in the 1950s. It is based on the premise that our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes play a significant role in influencing our emotions and behaviors. REBT is considered a cognitive-behavioral therapy, as it focuses on both cognitive (thought) and behavioral aspects of an individual’s experience.

Key principles of REBT include:

ABC Model:

A: Activating event (something happens)
B: Beliefs (individual’s thoughts or interpretations about the event)
C: Consequences (emotional and behavioral reactions)

According to REBT, it’s not the activating event (A) itself that directly causes emotional and behavioral consequences ©, but rather the individual’s beliefs (B) about the event.

Irrational Beliefs:

REBT identifies certain types of irrational beliefs that can lead to emotional distress. These include beliefs related to demandingness (rigid beliefs about how things must be), awfulizing (exaggerating the negative aspects of a situation), and low frustration tolerance (the inability to tolerate discomfort or frustration).

Disputing Irrational Beliefs:

REBT encourages individuals to identify and challenge their irrational beliefs through a process called disputing. This involves questioning the validity and rationality of these beliefs and replacing them with more rational and constructive thoughts.

Effective Coping Strategies:

REBT focuses on helping individuals develop more effective coping strategies and problem-solving skills. This includes teaching them how to change irrational beliefs, manage negative emotions, and adopt healthier behaviors.

Homework Assignments:

Clients often receive homework assignments in REBT to practice and reinforce the skills learned during therapy sessions. This can involve keeping thought records, challenging irrational beliefs, and implementing new coping strategies in real-life situations.

REBT is an active and directive form of therapy that aims to empower individuals to take control of their thoughts and emotions. It has been applied to various psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, anger management, and stress. The goal is to help individuals develop a more rational and constructive outlook on life, leading to improved emotional well-being and functioning.

Shervan K Shahhian

a Responsible Gaming Program, an explanation:

a Responsible gaming program, an explanation:

“The Best Gaming Program is NOT TO GAMBLE. Gambling Can Destroy Your Life, Please Do Not Gamble.”

A Responsible Gaming Program is a set of policies, procedures, and practices implemented by gaming operators or organizations to promote responsible gambling behaviors and minimize the potential harm associated with gambling. The primary aim of such a program is to ensure that individuals gamble in a safe and controlled manner, while also addressing issues related to problem gambling.

Key components of a Responsible Gaming Program typically include:

Education and Awareness: Providing information to customers about the risks associated with gambling, including the potential for addiction, financial problems, and other negative consequences. This may involve displaying warning signs, distributing educational materials, and offering resources for individuals seeking help.

Self-Exclusion Programs: Offering mechanisms for individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities for a specified period or indefinitely. This allows individuals struggling with gambling addiction to take proactive steps to limit their exposure to gambling environments.

Responsible Marketing Practices: Ensuring that advertising and promotional materials are not misleading or targeted towards vulnerable populations, such as minors or individuals with gambling problems. This may involve adhering to strict advertising guidelines and avoiding tactics that may encourage excessive or irresponsible gambling.

Staff Training and Support: Training employees to recognize signs of problem gambling and equipping them with the skills to intervene appropriately. This may include providing resources for staff members to refer customers to support services or offering counseling and support for employees who may be affected by the challenges of dealing with problem gambling.

Financial Controls: Implementing measures to prevent money laundering, underage gambling, and excessive spending. This may include setting limits on deposits, implementing age verification checks, and monitoring customer behavior for signs of problematic gambling patterns.

Collaboration with Stakeholders: Working with regulators, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective responsible gaming policies and initiatives. This may involve participating in industry-wide initiatives, sharing best practices, and supporting research on gambling-related issues.

Overall, a Responsible Gaming Program aims to create a safe and enjoyable gambling environment that minimizes harm and promotes positive gambling experiences for all participants. By addressing issues related to problem gambling proactively, gaming operators can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and contribute to the well-being of their customers and communities.

Shervan K Shahhian

Closure Psychology, what is it:

Closure Psychology, what is it:

In psychology, closure refers to the cognitive process of perceiving a complete or whole figure even when parts of that figure are missing. The term is often used in the context of visual perception, where individuals tend to mentally fill in gaps or missing information to perceive objects or scenes as complete.

The concept of closure is closely related to Gestalt psychology, a school of psychology that focuses on how people perceive and make sense of visual information. According to Gestalt principles, individuals have a tendency to organize visual elements into a whole or unified form rather than perceiving isolated parts. Closure is one of these principles and involves the mental completion of incomplete figures.

For example, if you were to see a circle with a small gap or section missing, your brain might automatically fill in the missing portion, and you would perceive the shape as a complete circle. Closure plays a role in various aspects of perception, such as object recognition and pattern completion.

Beyond visual perception, closure can also be applied metaphorically in the context of relationships or experiences. People may seek closure in emotional or interpersonal situations, desiring a sense of resolution or completeness. This can involve understanding, acceptance, or resolution of unresolved feelings or issues.

In summary, closure in psychology typically refers to the mental process of perceiving completeness or wholeness, whether in the context of visual perception or in more abstract, emotional situations.

Shervan K Shahhian

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, a great explanation:

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a therapeutic approach developed by psychologist Albert Ellis in the 1950s. It is based on the premise that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected, and that our irrational beliefs contribute to negative emotions and maladaptive behaviors. The goal of REBT is to identify and change these irrational beliefs in order to promote healthier emotional and behavioral outcomes.

Here’s a breakdown of the key components of REBT:

ABCDE Model:

Activating event: Something happens in our environment.
Beliefs: Our beliefs about the activating event influence our emotional response.
Consequences: Our emotional and behavioral reactions are a result of our beliefs.
Disputing irrational beliefs: Challenging and disputing irrational beliefs to change emotional and behavioral responses.
New Effect: Adopting rational beliefs leads to healthier emotional outcomes.
ABC Framework:

A (Activating event): The external situation or event that triggers an emotional response.
B (Beliefs): Our interpretation and beliefs about the activating event.
C (Consequences): Emotional and behavioral outcomes based on our beliefs.
Irrational Beliefs:

Ellis identified several common irrational beliefs, including demandingness (the belief that things must be a certain way), awfulizing (exaggerating the negative consequences), and low frustration tolerance (the belief that one cannot tolerate difficult situations).
Disputing Irrational Beliefs:

REBT emphasizes challenging and disputing irrational beliefs by examining evidence, considering alternative perspectives, and promoting more realistic and rational thinking.
Behavioral Homework:

Clients often engage in behavioral homework assignments to practice new, rational beliefs and behaviors in real-life situations.
Unconditional Self-Acceptance:

REBT encourages individuals to accept themselves unconditionally, recognizing that they are fallible and capable of making mistakes without devaluing their self-worth.
Mindfulness and Action Orientation:

REBT incorporates mindfulness techniques to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions. Additionally, it emphasizes taking constructive action to address problems.
Goal of Emotional Wellness:

The ultimate goal of REBT is to help individuals achieve emotional wellness by developing rational beliefs, managing negative emotions, and engaging in adaptive behaviors.
REBT is considered a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and has been widely used to treat various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and anger management. It empowers individuals to take an active role in changing their thought patterns and promoting emotional well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

Cultivating Psychokinesis, is that possible:

Cultivating Psychokinesis, is that possible:

There are millions of people who have witnessed Psychokinesis, but unfourtntly there are fraudsters out there.

Cultivating Psychokinesis is possible for some, but not all are able to cultivate Psychokinesis or PK.

Psychokinesis, often referred to as the ability to move or manipulate objects with the mind, is a concept that has been explored in various cultures and fictional works. However, from a skeptic scientific standpoint, do not accept anything paranormal, which can include God and religion.

The skeptic scientific community generally considers claims of psychokinesis to be pseudoscientific. Most studies claiming to demonstrate psychokinetic abilities have been criticized by skeptics.

Some individuals may believe in the possibility of psychokinesis. Scientific understanding of the human mind and its capabilities is continually advancing, but as of now, psychokinesis remains outside the realm of skeptic scientific phenomena. If someone is interested in developing mental abilities or enhancing cognitive functions, it is recommended to focus on well-established practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive training, which have demonstrated benefits for mental well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

Pop Psychology, what is it:

Pop Psychology, what is it:

While pop psychology can serve as an introduction to psychological concepts for the general public, it’s important to recognize that it may oversimplify or misrepresent the complexities of human behavior and mental processes. For a more accurate understanding of psychology, individuals are encouraged to explore the field through reputable sources, academic literature, and consultation with qualified professionals.

Pop psychology, short for popular psychology, refers to simplified and easily accessible psychological concepts and ideas that are often presented in mainstream media, self-help books, and other forms of popular culture. It encompasses psychological concepts that are simplified or exaggerated for mass consumption, aiming to appeal to a broad audience.

Pop psychology often focuses on self-help advice, personal development, and quick fixes for common psychological issues. It tends to simplify complex psychological theories and research findings, presenting them in a way that is easy to understand but may lack the nuance and depth found in academic psychology.

Shervan K Shahhian