Intensionality and Irrational Beliefs

Abstract

This study tested the correspondence between the general semantics notion of intensionality and Ellis' Irrational Beliefs. It was hypothesized that greater intensionality would be associated with greater endorsement of irrational beliefs. 73 introductory college students completed the “Is” of Identity measure of intensionality and an Irrational Belief Questionnaire. As hypothesized, scores reflecting greater intensionality on the “Is” of identity questionnaire were significantly and directly correlated with endorsement of irrational beliefs. These findings support the notion of correspondences between principles of general semantics and those of Rational Emotive Therapy.