Which of the following is a core component of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Embracing thoughts without judgment is a core component of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This therapeutic approach teaches individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings as they arise, rather than trying to suppress or control them. The aim is to create psychological flexibility, allowing individuals to engage with their inner experiences mindfully and without attachment or avoidance.

In ACT, the emphasis is on acknowledging emotions and thoughts without labeling them as right or wrong. This acceptance fosters a healthier relationship with one's internal experiences, enabling people to move forward and align their actions with their values, even in the presence of discomfort. By embracing thoughts without judgment, individuals can prevent the cycle of avoidance that reinforces negative patterns and contributes to emotional distress.

The other options, which focus on avoidance, judgment, or suppression, run counter to the principles of ACT, which encourages individuals to face and accept their experiences rather than escape from them.