What practice involves challenging irrational beliefs according to Albert Ellis?

The practice that involves challenging irrational beliefs according to Albert Ellis is rational-emotive therapy (RET). This therapeutic approach is based on the premise that many emotional issues stem from irrational beliefs or cognitive distortions. Ellis posited that by identifying and disputing these irrational thoughts, individuals can change their feelings and behaviors.

Rational-emotive therapy employs a framework that helps clients recognize their irrational beliefs — such as perfectionism, catastrophic thinking, or rigid demands — and encourages them to replace these thoughts with more rational and flexible beliefs. This cognitive restructuring aims to reduce the emotional distress that often accompanies irrational thought patterns.

In contrast, the other options do not specifically focus on challenging irrational beliefs in the same way that rational-emotive therapy does. Client-centered therapy prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and unconditional positive regard rather than directly confronting irrational beliefs. Behavioral reinforcement is concerned with modifying behavior through rewards and punishments, and the hierarchy of motives relates to motivational theory rather than cognitive challenges. Thus, rational-emotive therapy stands out as the approach that specifically addresses irrational beliefs.