What is Logotherapy? Definition and applications

George Alvarez 22-10-2023
George Alvarez

Regardless of religious and social guidelines, we all ask ourselves why we are alive. This goes far beyond biological meaning, searching for an existential bridge to adequately answer this question. Driven by doubt, find out what it is Logotherapy and where it applies.

What is Logotherapy?

Logotherapy is configured as a theoretical system that seeks meaning for human existence Conceived by Viennese psychiatrist Viktor Frankl, it aims to question some existing foundations and seeks a new meaning for them. The idea is to expand a deep reflection about our presence on this plane and purpose.

This system eventually became the Third School of Psychotherapy, this being Viennese, closing the triad of thought. The other two are Freud's Psychoanalysis and Adler's Individual Psychology. It became widespread when Frankl survived four concentration camps From this we deduce the source of its existence.

In short, as opened above, he affirms that the human being needs to find meaning in life In this way, the "will to meaning" becomes stronger than the motivating force of each person. It is worth pointing out that there are no external religious connections with this therapeutic aspect. It is independent of any influence.

Pillars

Logotherapy, regardless of how it is presented, has three very essential pillars to build its philosophy. Through them, we were able to raise pertinent questions about our stay here, as well as take directives Thus, we will be better able to focus our search if we observe:

Freedom of the Will

We, according to Logotherapy, have the freedom to decide without being determined by conditions. We are able to take action about what happens inside us as well as outside. Freedom takes on the meaning of space to conduct our life according to the given possibilities .

This comes directly from our spiritual reality in relation to the world and our own mind Connected to spirit, we become capable of shaping our lives. From there, we are able to deal properly with symptoms and regain our self-determination.

Meaning of life

The meaning of life here is considered a tangible object, far removed from any illusion of each person. Moreover, humans are led to give their best to the world by noticing the meaning in each situation. In this way, each potential is highlighted in relation to meaning. In the end, it is noted and manifests itself according to the person and the moment.

Basically, this theoretical system does not impose a universal meaning to life This goes according to each person, giving flexibility to understand and shape their lives in a more relevant way.

Will of meaning

The freedom of the human being is also configured in the direction of something With this, it is pointed out that each one of us has a purpose and goals to be achieved. When we look for them, we immediately look for meaning in our lives. Without the will to meaning, anyone experiences an existential and meaningless emptiness .

Thus, Logotherapy fosters the search for capture potential based on their own perspectives.

See_also: Anthropophobia: fear of people or society

Consequences of a Meaningless Life

Logotherapy indicates that individuals without this search are likely to be plagued by physical and psychological problems. In this way, the frustration in not finding the meaning of one's own life ends up turning to one's own body and mind This can be seen in the aggression, as it is sensitive to the lack of a function.

In addition, depression can take over her life, further diminishing her view of something. If the existential picture continues and she is not treated, she can nurture suicidal tendencies and neurotic disorders. Furthermore, psychosomatic diseases can arise, systemically affecting the individual .

Techniques

The techniques that Viktor Frankl used in Logotherapy serve as a basis for other procedures created later. Even today, they continue to shape new methods and tests. Even after so much time, they remain relevant for the best application and study of the process. Below are concentrated the most resonant in Frankl's work:

Derreflection

Indicated for those who have insomnia or sexual problems, as well as anxiety. With an exaggerated self-observation, we end up intensifying some perceptions and reactions that are harmful to ourselves. Based on this, derreflection can break this neurotic cycle and remove the exaggerated attention on the negative symptoms .

Read Also: Silence in Therapy: When the Patient Silences

Paradoxical Intention

This technique is geared towards those with compulsive and anxiety disorders, as well as vegetative syndromes. In this, a doctor or therapist will help patients to excel. In this way, can overcome each of their obsessions or anxieties of self-distancing This breaks the cycle of increasing symptoms.

I want information to enroll in the Psychoanalysis Course .

Socratic Dialogue

Expectations here can undermine any reach for meaning. This is because they can easily alienate one from the potential of meaning itself In this way, it ends up accentuating neurotic disturbances or making them consequences of bad attitudes.

With the Socratic Dialogue, patients are led to observe their unrealistic and unwise attitudes The conversation used here brings the possibility of realizing an adequate meaning to life.

Applications

Logotherapy can be well directed through a more collective contact between therapist and patient. For example, it is perfectly fitting to conduct it in a plural reading, so as to aggregate several people at the same time By setting up a support group, it is possible to work with and foster the various perspectives that exist.

In addition, a therapeutic support group also allows the inclusion of this theory system In addition to a more conventional therapy, the rescue work becomes more effective.

Final Comments: Logotherapy

As we know, humanity, as connected as it is, carries an individualized vision of life itself. Each of us carries a unique perspective that aims to make sense of the existential moment we are in. This is the premise of Logotherapy: to lead the individual to find meaning in his own existence .

In this way, you can feel fuller and more functional to enjoy your physical, mental, emotional, and social capabilities With Logotherapy, it is possible for us to correctly anchor our efforts to achieve existential centeredness. We know who we are, what we are, and what our purpose is.

To assist in this search process, enroll in our EAD course on Clinical Psychoanalysis. This is because the course provides a proper clarification of what you are looking for and gives you precise self-knowledge Knowing exactly who you are and what motivates you, you can leave in relation to what you need.

See_also: People don't change, or do they?

We value the greatest educational and financial access to quality content for the student. That way, you have a very flexible, low value course to study This allows you to set your own schedule, but still receive constant and permanent help from our teachers.

It is through them that you will absorb and direct the rich content of our workbooks externally. When you finish the course, you will personally receive a printed certificate containing your journey and academic excellence. With all this, don't postpone any more the opportunity to know yourself and find your meaning Take our Psychoanalysis course and be sure to share what it means logotherapy !

George Alvarez

George Alvarez is a renowned psychoanalyst who has been practicing for over 20 years and is highly regarded in the field. He is a sought-after speaker and has conducted numerous workshops and training programs on psychoanalysis for professionals in the mental health industry. George is also an accomplished writer and has authored several books on psychoanalysis that have received critical acclaim. George Alvarez is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise with others and has created a popular blog on Online Training Course in Psychoanalysis that is widely followed by mental health professionals and students around the world. His blog provides a comprehensive training course that covers all aspects of psychoanalysis, from theory to practical applications. George is passionate about helping others and is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of his clients and students.