Psychotherapeutic techniques of Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy in relation to the patristic theory and practice of pastoral care

Abstract

Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy is known as a psychological approach to the treatment of personality disorders related to the loss of meaning in life. However logotherapy also includes special techniques — paradoxical intentions and dereflection — that pretend to be useful in the treatment of psychogenic disorders which may manifest in cases of phobic and obsessive-compulsive conditions. The article analyses these logotherapy techniques on particular cases from the position of patristic (Orthodox) theory and practice of pastoral care. The result of the study reveals areas of contact between logotherapy and pastoral care, which show the proximity of logotherapy in some aspects to the Christian worldview. These facts can be used as a potential basis for constructive dialogue between Orthodox theologians and secular psychologists. At the same time, the theological analysis reveals points of divergence between the patristic pastoral and Frankl’s models of spiritual treatment, which may contribute to a balanced decision when choosing logotherapy or some of its techniques for pastoral care, as well as Christian psychological counselling. The article also demonstrates the instrumentality of Orthodox anthropology in considering the probable causes of the above-mentioned psychogenic disorders, as well as its potential for providing a practical support to people suffering from them.