love – rights – solidarity

1Gudrun Frerichs, PhD - www.psychologicalresolutions.co.nz

Recognition ThroughLove – Rights – Solidarity:

Exploring the Social Function of Psychotherapy

By

Gudrun Frerichs, PhD

Gudrun Frerichs, PhD - www.psychologicalresolutions.co.nz

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Overview

1. Theory of Recognition

2. Relevance for psychotherapy


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Recognition Theory

Developed by Axel Honneth

• Informed by:• Hegel • Mead

• Object-Relations Theory


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Recognition Theory

Core Concepts:

Social life is reproduced through acts of mutual recognition.

Social life starts with the individual because a person’s relation-to-self depends on one’s ability to view oneself through the perspective of the ‘other’ in an interactive process.

Describes social processes through which a sense of self and identity is derived


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Recognition Theory

Core Concepts:

Individuals are compelled to remove any constraints to mutual recognition in order to express their need for individualisation and for claiming their subjectivity

Human integrity is closely linked with patterns of approval and recognition.


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Recognition Theory

Recognition is given and received in 3 forms

Recognition through LOVE

Recognition through RIGHTS

Recognition through SOLIDARITY


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Love is the structural form

of all ethical life


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Recognition Theory

Recognition through LOVE

In primary relationships develops Self-Confidence


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Recognition Through Love

Develops sense of self & sense of identity

Differentiates self & environment

Co-ordinates sensory & motor experience

Develops body scheme

Develops self-confidence

Develops ability to express needs & desires


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Recognition Theory

Recognition through the granting of RIGHTS

Within legal systems

Develops Self-Respect


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Recognition Through Granting of RIGHTS

Leads to:

Equality

Autonomy

Ability to raise and defend claims

Being a full-fledged member of Society


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Recognition Theory

Recognition

through SOLIDARITY

Within one’s community

Develops Self-Esteem


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Recognition through SOLIDARITY

Demonstrates one’s relationship with and standing in the community

Enables persons to attribute social value to their own abilities, individual forms of life and manners.


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Lack of Recognition

Threat to self-development - identity of the person collapses - threat to systems of attachment - erodes basic trust -

Restricts freedom - social exclusion - inequality in social interactions - lack of regard of moral responsibility -

Leaves people feeling denigrated and insulted -


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The Role of Psychotherapy:

Provide emotional support, care, respect, and appreciation

Develop relationships based on mutual recognition

Address deficits of developmental stages

Thereby Developing

Positive Self-Relation


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Threats to client’s rights:

• Collusion with oppressive systems• Diagnostic practices • Therapeutic practices• Policies and procedures• Lack of consumer participation


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RIGHTS and Psychotherapists:

SILENCE & PASSIVITY

(Protest by) WITHDRAWAL

ASHAMED (to Speak Out)

=

The Known Effects of Abuse and Victimisation!


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RIGHTS and Psychotherapists:

Seeking Recognition

Through Registration

Recognition Amongst

Health Professionals


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Clients’ Struggle for SOLIDARITY:

Deficit in LOVE and RIGHTS

Negative Recognition by Self and Public

Lack of Social SkillsLack of Understanding

Feeling Crazy


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SOLIDARITY and Psychotheapy:

Therapist = the First Other

Collaboration vs. Patronisation

Modalities involving others

Create opportunities for mutual recognition, appreciation and

support!


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Recognition Theory

Social Model for Psychotherapy

Reconstruction of the Self

Focus on Empowerment

Away from Pathology

Diagnostic Aid


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THANK YOU

love – rights – solidarity

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