Page 48 - Part A
P. 48
Counselling Skills
The diagram below represents the process of achieving insight.
Conflict
Unconscious Conscious Insight/ resolved/
mind/conflict/ mind awareness understanding
problems and catharsis
Q. What is ‘catharsis’?
A. Catharsis is the release of pent up emotions, often strongly, when a problem
is resolved.
The importance of insight in psychodynamic theory
Insight is important because it gives rise to clarity and understanding. Use the
following activity to think about how this might feel to someone who experiences it.
! STOP AND THINK!
Think about a situation where you have suddenly seen the
solution to a complex or difficult problem that has been puzzling
or disturbing you for a long time. How would you describe that
situation? Be as metaphorical as you can and ensure you use
correct spelling and grammar in your sentences. Then, note
down how these moments make you feel and the effect that it
has on your behaviour.
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