Relational Frame Theory: applications within schools and educational contexts.

B. F. Skinner’s work in the field of verbal behaviour represented a movement of global significance. However, in today’s age, even those who appreciate its profound importance in the archives of psychology accept that it did not sufficiently account for complex human language. Recent advances in psychological science have led to the emergence of a post-Skinnerian account of human language and cognition known as Relational Frame Theory (RFT). The current paper introduces RFT, describing empirically supported examples of its relevance in educational psychology. Attention is given to 1) social, emotional and mental health support through RFT informed models such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Discoverer, Noticer, Adviser–Values (DNA-V) and 2) cognitive and attainment skills development through programmes such as Strengthening Mental Abilities with Relational Training (SMART) and Promoting the Emergence of Advanced Knowledge (PEAK). Reflections on future directions are offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]