Dialectical thought involves seeking a synthesis of two or more seemingly opposing viewpoints. Throughout our lives, our views about how the world works change. New ideas can be learned through experiences with the world or through interpersonal interaction. As a person’s views on a topic, behavior, or experiences begin to conflict with one another, that
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral treatment program originally developed by Marsha Linehan as a treatment for highly suicidal women with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and other difficult-to-treat mental disorders. DBT draws its principles from behavioral science (e.g., reinforcement, classical conditioning), Zen mindfulness practices (e.g., quieting the mind and focusing attention), and dialectical philosophy