What is the primary focus of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)?

The primary focus of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is on emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT was originally developed for individuals with borderline personality disorder but has since been adapted for various emotional and behavioral challenges. It combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with concepts from dialectical philosophy, emphasizing the balance between acceptance and change.

Emotion regulation is central to DBT, as it provides individuals with skills to understand and manage intense emotions in a healthier way. This includes strategies to identify emotional triggers, tolerate distress, and reduce impulsive behaviors that arise from emotional dysregulation.

Additionally, interpersonal effectiveness is a key component, training individuals to communicate more effectively and assertively, build healthier relationships, and set appropriate boundaries. This focus helps enhance social interactions and promotes functional relationships, which are essential for overall well-being.

Other options, while related to mental health, do not capture the comprehensive aim of DBT in the same way. Improving physical health focuses more on physical aspects rather than emotional skills. Increasing cognitive abilities does not specifically relate to the core competencies taught in DBT. Reducing addiction behaviors can be a beneficial outcome of DBT, but it is not the main emphasis of the therapy. Thus, the choice highlighting emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness accurately