The primary philosophical premise of rational-emotive behavior therapy is that all human beings are equal in worth, regardless of their conduct. Other philosophical assumptions of rational-emotive behavior therapy are that all humans are basically hedonistic, that psychological assessment should be an ongoing and vital part of the treatment process, and that clinical intervention should be efficient. Certain basic insights should be communicated to young offenders: (1) emotional and behavioral disturbances are caused primarily by inappropriate mental processes and not by outside factors; (2) emotional disturbances, regardless of their origin, are prolonged when they are transformed into harmful thought processes; and (3) lasting changes usually come only with hard work aimed at changing inappropriate thoughts and behaviors. In addition, therapists should recognize that deep change is both desirable and achievable. 1 reference