Bowen Family Systems Theory's central construct, differentiation of self (DoS), is one of the most recognized constructs to systemic researchers and psychology professionals. The present study reviewed the available evidence on DoS from the inception of the construct until July 31, 2020. A scoping review was conducted and a total of 295 primary…

Presents a model for using ritual in psychotherapy. Application of the model is illustrated in a case study of a neopagan ritual designed to assist the client in strengthening her sense of self, differentiating from her mother, and making a career decision. Suggests using the Healing Principle Ritual Therapy Model with other belief systems.…

The purpose of this paper is to review and critique the literature on Luborsky's contributions to process and outcome research on dynamic psychotherapy. Luborsky focused on the following key curative factors: (1) helping alliance; (2) transference; (3) transference interpretations; (4) psychiatric severity; and (5) self-understanding. His major…

Victor E. Frankl's theories concerning suffering and the meaning of life are discussed. There are many educational applications of Frankl's theories, which involve shock, apathy, refusal to make decisions, denial of wants and needs, and loss of identity. (CJ)

Discusses a transpersonal model which, like a humanistic model, focuses on the human potential for growth, health, and well-being. It goes beyond existing models to include self-transcendence and emphasizes the centrality of consciousness in shaping experience and enhancing well-being. (Author)

The paper discusses the six major ego functions, ego disturbances in mentally retarded children, and case examples of the use of art therapy to promote ego development. Identified are the following ego functions: control and regulation of instinctual drives, autonomous functions, reality testing, object relationships, defense, and synthesis. The…

Evaluates the reliability and validity of a new self-report measure of Self-Understanding of Interpersonal Patterns (SUIP). Measure demonstrates good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and discriminant validity. The SUIP further demonstrates convergent validity with measures of analytical and self-improving personality traits in a…

Clinical examples illustrate how one therapist's absence may stimulate the emergence and expression of warded-off material in the patient group and may serve as a catalyst for change. Describes possible benefits for cotherapy relationship. (Author/NRB)

Discusses the Black consciousness psychology or philosophy of Steve Biko, the political activist who died in police detention in the 1970s in South Africa. Aspects relating to empowerment, self-concept development, internalization of racism, and racial identity theory of Black people are examined. Suggests that the "frank talk" method is…

This article reviews selected literature on the parental self-concept and then provides a definition of the term. In addition, it theoretically explores the concept and then applies it to psychotherapeutic work with parents. Specifically it illustrates how a clinician's understanding of the parental self-concept can facilitate therapeutic change…

Reviews conceptual schemata and organizing principles that ego psychology has contributed to our understanding of emotional disturbance. Argues that ego psychology can be converted to testable, pragmatic, and usable precepts for psychotherapeutic practice. Finds theory particularly well suited to practice domain of clinical social work. (JBJ)

Research on depression among gifted adolescent females is reviewed. A psychotherapeutic model drawing on established feminist therapy strategies is presented for counselors working with gifted adolescent females. The model emphasizes recognizing harmful effects of patriarchal society, supporting females in self-exploration, and pursuing nonsexist…

Self-efficacy, a person's perceived capacity to execute a behavior required to produce a desired oucome, can affect motivation and behavior. It appears that individuals gain self-efficacy information from performance accomplishments, vicarious experience, verbal persuasion, and emotional arousal. Effective clinical interventions must promote…

Discusses how the philosophy of Soren Kierkegaard can provide useful guidelines for the study of the counseling process. Compares Kierkegaard's philosophy with selected contributions of Freud, Skinner, Rogers, and May and with four common themes of counseling and psychotherapy. (Author)

Presents paradigmatic case of "failure to know" involving a 36-year-old man treated in psychoanalytic therapy. Reviews issues such as the construction of narrative meaning, the concept of alexithymia, and the object-relational concept of the "unthought known." Discusses transference-countertransference matrix. (JBJ)