Depth psychology
Depth psychology
Depth psychology was referred to by Eugen Bleuler as a reference to psychoanalytic approach to therapies that investigate the unconscious mind, it is derived from German term Tiefenpsychologie. Theories were further developed and propagated by Sigmund Freud, Pierre Janet, C.G. Jung, and William James. The study of depth psychology was not limited to the study of conscious only, but also extended to understanding the unconscious and how the two systems interacted. The term depth indicated to the understanding of what resides away from the understanding of the human consciousness, includes conflict, relationship, behaviors, dynamics of family, dreaming, and social interactions.
What to expect?
Depth psychology works with investigating human’s unconsciousness. Instead of pushing our explained emotion away from our consciousness to avoid our numbness, depth psychology rely upon understanding the underlying cause. Thus, instead of finding short term solution, depth psychology attempts long term understanding of a problem. For example, when a loss occurs one has to learn grieving about them instead of looking for a substitute place to funnel the feelings.
How Depth Psychology Works?
Depth psychology have a integrative focus on the individual, devotes respect to their nature that is inherent and also to expectation of the culture. While dealing with humans as subjects, psychologists must realize that concepts are not bound but instead try to understand how the involvement of groups, individuals, and nations, the planet, and cultures influences human interaction. Depth psychology is expected to deal with in-depth understanding and questioning of human overt behaviour, taking into account the effects of culture, belief systems, and traditions. The primary focus to understand about human psyche to to elevate the mental being of the individual and ensure a better state of mind.
Many researchers believe that depth psychology is able to provide with a holistic view of a phenomena . It proceeds by taking into account different aspects of psychology and the implications of what resides deep within and the depiction in the behaviour. The view encourages individuals to not run away from the pain. Instead view pain as an inevitable part of life; by understanding it, individual can learns the how to deal with it. In the process of therapy, the clients are explained and encouraged to practice empathy; the slowly learn about true consciousness, active listening and how not to be judgmental or standoffish. Thus, enhancing motivation for not only better understanding of oneself but also others in general For some, it may mean to reach out into the unknown and to live a life that is faith driven.
When is Depth Psychology used?
Depth psychology can be employed for all kinds of treatment. When patients uses defense mechanisms and represses emotions, they are not putting proper coping mechanism to the use. They are taught how to think beyond the defenses for better mental health. People soon begin to deal with things differently from being diagnosed with a terminal illness to the loss of a loved one, and they do not push emotions deep inside their minds. Depth psychology assists patients learn how to sort out and cope with different types of emotions.
Role of therapist:
Depth psychology has developed in to a process of listening to not only what is said, but what is left unsaid. Indicating, silence finds interpretation here. With this type of approach, the psychiatrist or psychologist can have the opportunity to completely understand their client and help them to initiate the process of healing and living a life of increased satisfaction.
REFERENCE
Moore, Thomas. 1994. A Guide for Cultivating Depth and Sacredness in Everyday Life. Harper Paperback Books.