The intricacies of inference chaining

Abstract

This article describes some of the common errors made in inference chaining by novice as well as experienced REBTers. These errors are presented in a three stage process: first, false starts in initiating the chain; second, going deeper into the chain but following the wrong path caused by inattention to client data signposting the right one; third, stopping short of the critical A because of insufficient refinement of the activating event. Then we present the complete inference chain with annotations showing how the aforementioned mistakes can be avoided. Finally, we suggest that inference chaining does not have to be a daunting prospect but its successful execution usually requires more than just REBT training.