Question

Check your understanding of the three approaches to insight therapy covered in the text by matching each approach with the appropriate explanation of the typical origins of clients' psychological disorders. The answers are in Appendix A. __________ Problems rooted in inaccurate selfconcept and excessive concern about pleasing others a. Psychoanalysis b. Client-centered therapy c. Couples and family therapy

Short answer

Answer: Client-centered therapy

Step-by-step solution

Understand the three approaches to insight therapy

Psychoanalysis focuses on uncovering unconscious thoughts, feelings, and memories that may be contributing to the client's psychological issues. Client-centered therapy emphasizes creating a supportive environment where the client can explore and develop their self-concept. Couples and family therapy address problems within the relationship and family dynamics.

Identify the approach appropriate for problems rooted in inaccurate self-concept and excessive concern about pleasing others

Among the three approaches, client-centered therapy focuses on the self-concept and establishing an environment that allows clients to explore and improve their self-concept. This approach is most suitable for problems rooted in inaccurate self-concept and excessive concern about pleasing others. Solution:

Matching the approach with the explanation

The most suitable approach for problems rooted in an inaccurate self-concept and excessive concern about pleasing others is Client-centered therapy (b).

Key concepts

Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis is a therapeutic approach developed by Sigmund Freud, which aims to uncover unconscious thoughts that influence behavior. It operates on the belief that many psychological problems stem from repressed memories and unresolved childhood conflicts. Therapists using this method delve deep into a person's past experiences, seeking to bring subconscious issues to consciousness.

Key techniques include:

• Free Association: Clients are encouraged to share thoughts without censorship, revealing hidden patterns and themes.
• Dream Analysis: Dreams are interpreted as symbolic messages from the unconscious.
• Transference: Patients project feelings about important people in their lives onto the therapist, offering insights into their emotional landscape.

The goal is to help individuals understand the psychological roots of their issues, enabling them to make thoughtful changes.

Client-Centered Therapy

Client-Centered Therapy, also known as person-centered therapy, was established by Carl Rogers. This method focuses on an individual's self-concept and views clients as the best experts on their own feelings and experiences. The therapist's role is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to express themselves and explore their feelings.

This therapy emphasizes:

• Unconditional Positive Regard: The therapist offers unwavering support, helping clients to feel valued and respected.
• Empathy: Therapists show genuine understanding and compassion for the client's experiences.
• Congruence: The therapist is genuine and transparent, encouraging openness from the client.

By fostering a supportive environment, client-centered therapy helps individuals build a more accurate self-concept and resolve the emotional issues from trying too hard to meet others' expectations.

Couples and Family Therapy

Couples and Family Therapy focuses on the relationships and dynamics within a family or between partners. Unlike individual therapy, which centers on one person's experiences, this approach views problems as part of the larger relational context.

Main components include:

• Communication: Improving the way family members express themselves and listen to each other.
• Conflict Resolution: Developing strategies to deal with disagreements and conflicts in a productive manner.
• Role Definitions: Clarifying expectations and responsibilities of each family member or partner.

The goal of this therapy is to improve overall harmony and understanding within the family or couple, leading to a healthier and more balanced living environment. It helps identify patterns that may contribute to dysfunction and fosters stronger, more supportive relationships.