Which statement best describes the goal of ACT?

Which statement best describes the goal of ACT?

• A. Change thoughts to eliminate them completely.
• B. Avoid feelings at all costs.
• C. Increase psychological flexibility by accepting experiences and committing to value-based actions.
• D. Promote extensive problem solving regardless of emotions.

Answer: (C)

ACT aims to increase psychological flexibility by accepting experiences and committing to value-based actions. Rather than trying to suppress or eliminate thoughts and feelings, ACT teaches turning toward internal experiences with openness (acceptance) while choosing actions that align with what matters to the person (values) even when distress is present. This flexibility helps a person behave in ways that are consistent with their values, rather than being ruled by fear, avoidance, or rule-based problem solving. For example, someone anxious about speaking in public can notice the worry without letting it stop them, and still choose to present because contributing to others or sharing important information is a valued goal. This combination of acceptance and committed action is central to ACT. The other options fit more with approaches focused on changing or avoiding internal experiences or on solving problems regardless of emotions, which isn't how ACT operates.

ACT aims to increase psychological flexibility by accepting experiences and committing to value-based actions. Rather than trying to suppress or eliminate thoughts and feelings, ACT teaches turning toward internal experiences with openness (acceptance) while choosing actions that align with what matters to the person (values) even when distress is present. This flexibility helps a person behave in ways that are consistent with their values, rather than being ruled by fear, avoidance, or rule-based problem solving.

For example, someone anxious about speaking in public can notice the worry without letting it stop them, and still choose to present because contributing to others or sharing important information is a valued goal. This combination of acceptance and committed action is central to ACT.

The other options fit more with approaches focused on changing or avoiding internal experiences or on solving problems regardless of emotions, which isn't how ACT operates.