An appraisal of constructivist psychotherapies.
Predicated on a postmodern epistemology, constructivist theories emphasize the proactive, self-organizing features of human knowing and their implications for psychotherapy. This article outlines the potential contributions of 4 clinical lineages sharing a constructivist philosophy--personal construct theory, structural--developmental cognitive therapy, narrative reconstruction, and constructivist family therapy--and briefly reviews emerging trends in psychotherapy research compatible with this perspective. Although current constructivist approaches confront problems as well as prospects, they represent a growing force within psychotherapy, contributing to the sophistication of psychological theory, the diversification of clinical research, and the extension of therapeutic technique.
Neimeyer
R A
RA
Department of Psychology, Memphis State University, Tennessee 38152.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005196:Family Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D010684:Philosophy; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D011936:Reality Testing; D012649:Self Concept