Date of Award:

5-2016

Document Type:

Dissertation

Degree Name:

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department:

Psychology

Committee Chair(s)

Michael P. Twohig

Committee

Michael P. Twohig

Committee

Michael E. Levin

Committee

Gregory J. Madden

Committee

Amy L. Odum

Committee

Timothy A. Slocum

Abstract

For some people, decision making is more often influenced by immediate gratification, rather than what is best for them in the long term. This study intended to change how those people made decisions, in order to help them live meaningful lives. This was done through eight sessions of a treatment called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT; in comparison to no treatment). Forty adults were randomly assigned to either treatment or a no treatment control. The treatment did not change the way people responded on the decision making measures, although the treatment reduced problematic behaviors and obstacles to living a meaningful life. The treatment increased openness and flexibility to emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations that can influence decision making. Treatment also increased overall well-being. Taken together, the results suggest that ACT is a useful treatment to help people change behaviors that are a problem for them and can increase their quality of life. However, these changes did not occur in the expected manner.

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