Dialectics in DBT teaches us to find a balance between two opposing thoughts or actions to gain a more complete understanding of the situation. Dialectical thinking and behavior can help a person stay calm by achieving a balance between change and acceptance.
This DBT Dialectical Thinking Worksheet serves as a helpful tool for clients to practice the skill by completing each sentence with an opposing viewpoint. It also asks them to write down other examples of dialectics in their daily lives.
Using this worksheet helps kids and teens learn how to resolve conflicts in disagreements and improve their problem-solving skills. As they go through each item on the worksheet, give them enough time to think about their answers. When used in a group, engage participants in a follow-up discussion to share their insights.
This worksheet is a helpful supplement to dialectical thinking lessons, and can be paired with our Dialectical Thinking Poster or our Tips For Finding The Middle Path handout. Both of which expand on the dialectical thinking concept.
Some individuals might also find value in our What Is Walking The Middle Path handout, which provides a brief summary of dialectical thinking.
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References:
- Li, L. M. W., Mei, D., Li, W., & Ito, K. (2021). Dialectical versus linear thinking shapes people’s anticipation of climate change. Frontiers in Psychology, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.623591
- Mehlum, L. (2021). Mechanisms of change in dialectical behaviour therapy for people with borderline personality disorder. Current Opinion in Psychology, 37, 89–93. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.08.017
- Veraksa, А., Basseches, M., & Brandão, A. P. (2022). Dialectical Thinking: a proposed foundation for a post-modern Psychology. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.710815
