right and wrong, and of damnation if one acts wrongly, without thinking them
through leads to guilt, anxiety, depression, and other psychological dysfunctions.
Ellis (Ellis, 2004b; Ellis & Dryden, 1997; Ziegler, 2003) believes that individuals
preferably should have unconditional self-acceptance (USA). They should
accept that they make mistakes, that they have worth, and that some of their
own assets and qualities are stronger than other assets that they or others possess.
“Thus, Adolf Hitler may be equal in humanity to Mother Teresa, but in
terms of their compassion toward human beings, the latter far outscores the former”
(Ellis & Dryden, 1997, p. 205). To achieve USA, individuals need to work at
this; otherwise, they may blame themselves for being “worthless” or “no good.”
An extension of this view is that people can be perceived as good in themselves
because they exist (Ellis, 2001e; Ziegler, 2000). Abhorring discrimination against
anyone based on traits such as race, sex, or intellect, Ellis believes that individuals
should be accepted for themselves, a concept similar to Carl Rogers’s “unconditional
positive regard” (Dryden, 1998; Ellis, 1962, 1973, 1993, 2001c; Ellis &
Dryden, 1997; Ziegler, 2003). Thus, Ellis believes that both the therapist and the
client should rate or criticize their deeds, acts, or performances but not their essence
or themselves. Acceptance of the client while not liking aspects of his behaviors
is consistent with the philosophy of REBT.