This article introduces 3 major factors of K. Wilber's (1999b) "all-quadrants, all-levels" model of defenses: the category of defense, the level of self development and defense, and the threat zone against which the self is defending. Through theoretical discussion and select clinical examples differentiating healthy and unhealthy expressions of…

Compares and contrasts the ways that Chinese Taoism and Zen Buddhism view the development of human potential with the ways that the self-actualization theories of Rogers and Maslow describe the human potential movement. Notes many similarities between the ways that Taoism, Zen Buddhism, and the self-actualization theories of Rogers and Maslow…

Discusses the presence and power of the spiritual content in the counseling process and in the attainment of optimum wellness. Spirituality and spiritual wellness are defined and the intrinsic nature of spirituality is discussed in the context of Rogers's and Maslow's self-actualization theories as well as the importance of optimum psychological…

Referring to the fable, The Man Who Was Placed In A Cage'', by Rollo May, the author discusses the implications of this piece of psychological literature for counselors and therapists. (JC)

A counselor discusses his experiences while working with a male client on a "hero's journey," or the path to self-realization. The author explains how he grappled with what his role, as counselor, should be in this process. He concludes that he should act as the "hero's travel guide," someone who makes the clients' path shorter, smoother, or less…

This introduction to the cognitive-developmental view of growth and development asks: (1) What is development?; (2) What are the necessary conditions for development?; (3) How can development be generally assessed?; and (4) What are the various parallel forms of development? (RP)

Attempts to fill in the gap in the literature regarding Assagioli's theories by: (1) summarizing the assumptions, terms, and concepts of psychosynthesis; (2) presenting the structure and dynamics of the personality theory; and (3) providing illustrations of the theory's application. Discusses the implications of these points. (JAC)

Erik Erikson has described eight stages of the healthy personality. This essay offers a revised version of the eight stages. Although most individuals develop through the eight stages, each is personally unique because patterns of fluctuation between safety and growth differ from one individual to another. (Author)

The intentions of this discussion are to reflect on the stereotypic views of pain, look at ways of reconciling these seemingly antipodal postitions, and finally recommend a model for describing the functions that can be served by psychiatry and pastoral counseling for helping the individual achieve self-fulfillment. (Author)

Synergism, as it relates to counseling, refers to the dynamic interaction between an individual and his environment. Presented in this special issue is a series of articles discussing the various implications of this concept for several aspects of counseling. (RP)

One of the criticisms of the existential approach to counseling is that it is more philosophical than empirical. Those who believe it is a valid approach do not reject technique but go beyond the constraints of strict adherence to create an atmosphere of lived, shared humanity. (PAS)

For minority group members self actualization is difficult to achieve since it is linked to economic consumption, making employment worthwhile to the extent that it permits consumption. Vocational guidance personnel must create a model which will not only help the person understand the system but also sensitize the system to the needs of the…

Considers various ways that values enter into counseling or psychotherapy, with particular attention to goals of the process and methods or procedures by which counselor or therapist implements process. Suggests approach to counseling and psychotherapy that recognizes and incorporates values basic to democratic philosophy and the goal of…

Evidence suggests that community service programs can instill values and nurture development of positive personality and behavioral characteristics. This study sought to determine the effects of participation in community service activities on the personality development of high school students. Quantitative analysis yielded limited evidence of…