A Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) intervention to improve low frustration tolerance in an elite table tennis player

This chapter introduces the philosophy, process, and theoretical considerations of the application of an integrated Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) intervention to address a male table tennis athlete’s low frustration tolerance (LFT). This world-class athlete often lost his temper and was unable to control his emotional reactions when faced with frustrations during major international competitions. Using REBT, the athlete’s sport-specific irrational beliefs were identified, disputed, and restructured. The first author’s presence at overseas training camps and competitions was an important facilitating factor, providing immediate on-the-spot opportunities to educate and change the athlete’s problematic behaviors with the support of his coach and partner. Multiple methods, including qualitative and quantitative, were used for evaluating the effectiveness of this integrated REBT intervention in changing LFT. The intervention was effective in increasing the athlete’s frustration tolerance and in enhancing his performance. The athlete and his partner won a silver medal in an Olympic Games.