
The Dissenter #229 Steven Hayes: A Liberated Mind; Relational Frame Theory And Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Sep 13, 2019
Dr. Steven C. Hayes, a leading figure in psychology and the co-founder of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, explores fascinating concepts in human cognition. He discusses how evolutionary science reshapes psychological practices and the role of epigenetics in behavior and therapy. Hayes critiques traditional behavioral genetics and highlights the transformative potential of Relational Frame Theory. He advocates for a values-driven approach in therapy, addressing societal issues affecting mental health, and emphasizes empathy and community cooperation as pathways to resilience.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Rethink Heritability Percentages
- Twin-study heritability percentages mask complex cultural and environmental confounds.
- Hayes says reporting '50% genetic' misleads policymakers and ignores third-variable processes.
Contextual Behavioral Science Reboot
- Contextual behavioral science revives Skinner's goals under an evolutionary, pragmatic frame.
- Hayes emphasizes prediction with precision, scope, depth, and evolutionary epistemology.
Language As Relational Networks
- Relational Frame Theory (RFT) treats language as derived relational learning, not mere association.
- Hayes shows humans form bidirectional, multi-relational symbolic networks enabling complex cognition.








