Philosophical issues in psychotherapy

Author(s): Woolfolk, R. L.

Journal/Book: Clin Psychol Sci Practice. 1998; 5: Journals Dept, 2001 Evans Rd, Cary, NC 27513. Oxford Univ Press Inc. 251-263.

Abstract: This article aims to demonstrate the importance and inevitability of nonscientific issues in psychotherapy and psychopathology by addressing four closely related topics: the presence of a priori factors such as tacit assumptions and narrative forms; the inescapable presence of values; the way in which psychotherapy and psychopathology are partly defined by, and in turn shape, current societal and cultural outlooks; and the status of clients as agents independent of their status as objects of scientifically based healing. The way in which these factors operate is illustrated in the care of a 45-year-old woman suffering from depression, physical illnesses, and family problems. Implications for quantitative and qualitative research are suggested.

Note: Article Messer SB, Rutgers State Univ, Grad Sch Appl & Profess Psychol, Piscataway,NJ 08854 USA

Keyword(s): philosophy; psychotherapy; psychopathology; values; narrative; MENTAL DISORDER; BEHAVIOR-THERAPY; VALUES; MODERNITY; CRITIQUE; LIMITS

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