Störungsspezifische Verstehensprozesse versus diagnosegeleitete Einstellungen

Abstract

Disorder-specific processes of empathic understanding versus diagnosis-led procedures. This article sets out the essentials of a disorder-specific process of empathic understanding in the person-centered approach of psychotherapy in contrast to a procedure formed purely on the basis of a diagnosis. The fundamental importance of constructively usable relationships for the development of personality are first discussed. In this connection the theory of an inborn “desire to be in relationships” is put forward (akin to the “desire to function” encountered in children’s play according to K. Buhler). The empathic understanding of specific disorders goes far beyond general empathy and may include communicable diagnosis. The aim is to go beyond spontaneous familiarity to find a more differentiated access to experience, which is not immediately opened up either for the client or the therapist, but only becomes accessible through working it out together or through experience and knowledge of the disorder.