ACT therapy is primarily concerned with maintaining cognitive flexibility, expanding ones thought-action repertoire, and living in context with the truth that works, rather than an ontological truth (Hayes, 2004).
ACT emphasizes six concepts; acceptance, defusion, “the now”, “the self”, value clarification, and committed action. While there is rather complex theory behind each of these concepts and a myriad of empirical studies to back them up, it may be useful to try and understand them in terms of finding one’s self in a new context, being abroad.
Acceptance is meant to help the individual take their cognition in stride within their context. Abroad, acceptance could mean learning to accept that you cannot drink a cappuccino after 2pm. It could mean understanding that you cannot change the fact that going anywhere in Perugia is an uphill climb. But really, it means understanding that being in an alien place may bring on some very uncomfortable thoughts which one can either live by, but ideally, live with.
Defusion is founded in relational frame theory. As we relate different stimuli arbitrarily, maladaptive connections form that keep us from fully embracing our values. Abroad, this could mean an aversion to speaking in the language because of the time you completely blanked and felt silly. To defuse these associations, you must recognize that the fusion is present and take committed action to reinforce stimuli in a more positive way.
“The now” is primarily concerned with cognitive flexibility. To connect with the present is essential to being able to act adaptively in any context. Abroad, this may mean thinking about friends at home or spending time worrying about your internship this summer. While these are valid concerns, you may be missing out on this once-in-a-life-time opportunity and should take a moment, let those thoughts pass, and appreciate that church or scenic view you have been meaning to really take in.
“The self” is concerned with breaking down fusion regarding “who I am” and “how I am”. Abroad, this means letting go of some of the stereotypes you may be placing upon yourself as a tourist and remember that you are an individual who has a complex history. Focus on observing yourself from an objective viewpoint, as a process.
Values and Committed action go hand in hand. Once we have embraced cognitive flexibility and the fusion of thoughts, we need to confirm what we value and work towards living by those values. Abroad, this means pushing yourself to use the language and spend time with locals if you value cultural exchange. It means booking that trip if you value travel.
While these are very simplified explanations of some very complex concepts, that used in real life or clinical practice should be understood on a much deeper level, they can be seen in a basic sense. The purpose of any therapy should be to help individuals live better and thus there may be some application when abroad.
Citation:
Hayes, S. C. (2004). Acceptance and commitment therapy, relational frame theory, and the third wave of behavioral and cognitive therapies. Behavior Therapy, 35, 639–665.