International Journal of Psychology and Psychological Therapy
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Volume 26 Num. 2 - June 2026

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Using Functional Analytic Psychotherapy’s Awareness, Courage, and Love Model to Generate Open-Heartedness Towards Others: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Volume 26 Num. 2 - June 2026 - Pages 273-291

Authors:

Daniel W. M. Maitland , Emerson Hardebeck , Kristen Pedersen , Elizabeth Moore , Logan Wahl , Jennifer K. Truitt , Mavis Tsai

Abstract:

The Awareness, Courage, and Love (ACL) model of identifying Clinically Relevant Behavior in Functional Analytic Psychotherapy is thought to have enormous potential for enhancing social connection and mitigating loneliness. Informed by the ACL model, non-therapeutic social groups have emerged with the explicit goal of creating connection between members of the group, thus mitigating societal-level loneliness and social isolation. However, little is known about the efficacy or effectiveness of these groups in achieving their goal. In order to enhance understanding of the effects of attending these groups, we conducted two studies investigating ACL group processes and outcomes. In Study 1, 34 participants were randomly assigned to either a six-week ACL intervention group or a control group, where participants watched and discussed meetings. Findings suggested individuals in the experimental group were able to create connection and occasionally engage in essential processes during meetings. However, participants did not seem to generalize the changes to their day-to-day environment. In Study 2, we randomized 36 young adults to either an intervention group or a control group. In Study 2, we enhanced measurement techniques, assessed variables that might interfere with generalizing newly developed skills, and addressed several methodological limitations of Study 1. Findings suggested that behavior changes occurred in the group, and that difficulties in generalizing the newly developed repertoire may be partially explained by participant depression and anxiety.

How to cite this paper:
Maitland DWM, Hardebeck E, Pedersen K, Moore E, Wahl L, Truitt JK, & Tsai M (2026). Using Functional Analytic Psychotherapy’s Awareness, Courage, and Love Model to Generate Open-Heartedness Towards Others: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. International Journal of Psychology & Psychological Therapy, 26, 2, 273-291.

Key words:

Functional Analytic Psychotherapy, interpersonal intimacy, loneliness, contextual behavioral intervention, randomized controlled trial

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