Keywords
Relational philosophy of E. Levinas, moral elements in therapeutic relationships
Abstract
Phenomenological qualitative methods were used to identify and describe moral elements in therapeutic relationships. Using the relational philosophy of E. Levinas (1961/1969, 1979/1987) as a base, data in which therapists and clients identified and described morally responsive experiences in therapy sessions were analyzed. These moments were often unexpected and included categories of surprise, interruption, willingness to change, and clarifications/repairs. Additional moral phenomena related to therapists' attitudes included asymmetrical indebtedness, attitude of serving, and tentativeness of diagnosis. Identified moments of moral responsiveness were frequently associated with clients' progress in therapy. This suggests that conceptually smooth and uninterrupted therapy may be less helpful than therapy that is discontinuous and able to change in the moment.
Original Publication Citation
Whiting, J. B., Nebeker, R. S., & Fife, S. T. (2005). Moral responsiveness and discontinuity in therapy: A qualitative study. Counseling and Values, 50, 20-37
BYU ScholarsArchive Citation
Whiting, Jason B. PhD; Nebeker, R. Scott; and Fife, Stephen T., "Moral Responsiveness and Discontinuity in Therapy: A Qualitative Study" (2005). Faculty Publications. 2172.
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/facpub/2172
Document Type
Peer-Reviewed Article
Publication Date
2005-10
Permanent URL
http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5071
Publisher
Counseling and Values
Language
English
College
Family, Home, and Social Sciences
Department
Family Life
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