The theories of Albert Ellis, known as Rational Emotive Therapy
have been tested by means of correlations of measures of Irrational
beliefs (measured by a modified Jones questionnaire) with measures of
self-esteem tested by the Rosenberg questionnaire. In addition
Projective methods were used, to detect the patterns of Irrational beliefs
by more covert methods. The Incomplete Sentence Technique, and the
Thematic Apperception Technique of Murray were used. A cross
correlation of the Rosenberg, Incomplete Sentences and Thematic
Apperception Test material was used for a self-esteem measure, extracted
from the protocols of the last two measures. A pattern of correlations
was found with convergent validity showing a correlation between high
levels of Irrational beliefs and low levels of self-esteem, most strongly for
'need for approval'. The scores from the Thematic Apperception Test
cards were analysed to find out which cards were most powerful in
detecting the relationship between irrational beliefs and self-esteem.
Questionnaire methods were convergently valid, and the projective
methods were convergently valid to some extent, but without agreement
between the two alternative forms of measurement, although some
intercorrelation was found
