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The intensification and resolution of blocked affect in an experiential psychotherapy
Author(s) -
Daldrup Roger J.,
Engle David,
Holiman Marjorie,
Beutler Larry E.
Publication year - 1994
Publication title -
british journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.479
H-Index - 92
eISSN - 2044-8260
pISSN - 0144-6657
DOI - 10.1111/j.2044-8260.1994.tb01104.x
Subject(s) - psychology , gestalt therapy , psychotherapist , gestalt psychology , affect (linguistics) , resolution (logic) , experiential learning , schematic , cognitive psychology , communication , neuroscience , mathematics education , artificial intelligence , electronic engineering , computer science , engineering , perception
Focused Expressive Psychotherapy is a Gestalt‐based method of psychotherapy which is designed to facilitate the resolution of constricted emotion in patients. This form of therapy is described as a five‐step process. The present article addresses the steps of that process which relate specifically to the intensification and resolution of emotions. The importance and rationale for intensification are discussed and related to the concept of restructured schematic memories. Markers of resolution are identified as changes in ‘benchmarks’, changes in patient behaviour or attitude, and/or a re‐evaluated stance towards past events. We conclude by citing one of our recent research efforts that demonstrates a relationship between the intensification of emotion and positive therapy outcome.