This study examined the association among interpersonal relationships irrational beliefs and life satisfaction. Twenty-eight psychotherapy clients and 207 college undergraduates completed measures of interpersonal relations (Outcome Questionnaire; Lambert et al. 1996) irrationality (Rational Behavior Inventory; Shorkey & Whiteman 1977) and life
satisfaction (The Satisfaction with Life Scale; Diener Emmons Larsen & Griffin 1985). Results indicated that interpersonal relations predicted life satisfaction whereas global irrationality was indirectly related to life satisfaction. Specifically interpersonal relations mediated the association between global irrationality and life satisfaction. Clinicians
aiming to foster life satisfaction in their patients are encouraged to carefully assess their social functioning and utilize relationship-enhancing treatments. Targeting irrational thinking may also be necessary to set the stage for and support such interventions.