What is NOT a feature of the ABC model?

• A. Activating event
• B. Belief
• C. Consequence emotion and behavior
• D. Disputation

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is distinguishing what actually makes up the ABC model from what counts as a therapeutic technique. The ABC model describes three components: an Activating event, the Belief about that event, and the Consequence, which refers to the resulting emotional and behavioral response. Disputation, however, is a technique used to challenge and modify the belief itself. It is not a component of the model, but an intervention applied to beliefs to change the subsequent emotional and behavioral outcomes. For example, after an Activating event like failing a test, you identify the Belief (“I’m a failure”), and you experience a Consequence (feeling discouraged, avoiding studying). Disputation would involve examining and questioning that belief to develop more adaptive interpretations, rather than being part of the core ABC sequence itself.