Progressive triangulation in psychotherapy and the spiritual journey

Relationship triangles are usually considered symptomatic of family dysfunction in systems-oriented therapy, but they may also serve a progressive, transitional role in relationships. The author examines the phenomenon and function of "progressive" triangles in East and West spiritual trad...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Sparrow, Gregory Scott (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Taylor & Francis 2008
In: Mental health, religion & culture
Year: 2008, Volume: 11, Issue: 8, Pages: 783-793
Further subjects:B Family Therapy
B spiritual mentoring
B relationship triangles
B teleological transference
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
Description
Summary:Relationship triangles are usually considered symptomatic of family dysfunction in systems-oriented therapy, but they may also serve a progressive, transitional role in relationships. The author examines the phenomenon and function of "progressive" triangles in East and West spiritual traditions, and suggests that triangles comprising seeker, mediator, and higher power are common in both traditions, regardless of differing views of human nature. A progressive triangle in the therapeutic setting can be seen as a function of teleological transference, in which a seeker's spiritual aspirations are projected onto a mediator, who provides support and direction for its further realization. The implications of progressive triangulation and teleological transference in contemporary practice are discussed.
ISSN:1469-9737
Contains:Enthalten in: Mental health, religion & culture
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1080/13674670802040087