Reference no: EM134027281

Question

A psychological defense mechanism is denial which involves refusing to acknowledge or accept a painful or upsetting reality (Corey, 2017). It is an approach used by people to shield themselves from the intense feelings brought on by the truth. People in denial construct a psychological barrier to keep out the uncomfortable truth when confronted with a circumstance or information that threatens their feeling of security or self-image. An example of this mechanism would be when a loved one passes away and the pain hurts so much that a person tries to convince themselves it didn't actually happen. Denial gives the person a brief break from the unpleasant reality and helps them carry on with their daily activities without becoming too emotionally and psychologically affected by the event. While denial may act as a short-term defense mechanism, it can also impede personal development and keep people from getting the help they need to deal with their problems and overcome them.

According to Adler's idea of birth order, some of the experiences we have as children may be somewhat influenced by our birth order. The most significant social system is the one we have with our family, particularly the bond we form with our siblings (Corey, 2017). Adler believes the older child is typically more goal-oriented and responsible whereas the youngest child frequently gets more attention and may grow up to be more dependent and extroverted. As the older sibling, I believe I have more responsibility on my hands and the duty to always set the example. I think I am more ambitious and goal-oriented than my younger sibling and I can relate to Adler's ideas. My younger sibling however is more laid back, go-with-the-flow, and not as ambitious as I am. I feel Adler's ideas can apply to some families, but not all families are the same and you can't generalize family dynamics.

I think it's significant and highly valid to say that the quality of the client-therapist relationship is essential to the effectiveness of existential therapy. Existential therapy emphasizes the value of the actual and genuine relationship between the therapist and the patient rather than relying solely on procedures or treatments. The textbook states that existential therapy strongly emphasizes empathy, compassion, and honesty in interpersonal relationships to assist in rehabilitation (Corey, 2017). This approach supports the idea that therapeutic relationships themselves can help people grow and heal because they provide a safe space for introspection and self-reflection. The Good Will Hunting film shows a therapist who has developed a unique bond with his patient, Will. Will appears at ease opening up about his early years and showing genuine vulnerability. There is no doubt that their relationship is one of equality. Will will be able to overcome all of the distress he has experienced as a result of the therapist's sincere concern and profound empathy for him.