Reflections About Classical Adlerian Depth Psychotherapy: Theory, Practice, and Life

A vigorously optimistic and inspiring approach to prevention and treatment, Classical Adlerian Depth Psychotherapy balances the equally important needs for individual, optimal development and social contribution. With a solid foundation in the original teachings and therapeutic style of Alfred Adler, it integrates the self-actualization research of Abraham Maslow. For more information, visit our web site at http//www.Adlerian.us

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Location: Bellingham, Washington, United States

Classical Adlerian psychotherapist and training analyst. Director of the Alfred Adler Institute of Northwestern Washington, offering distance training in Classical Adlerian psychotherapy. Tel: (360) 647-5670. Email: htstein@att.net

Friday, May 04, 2007

The "Dangerous Corner" of War

In his overview of "dangerous corners" in child development (Volume 12, Chapter 4, of The Collected Clinical Works of Alfred Adler), Adler warns us about the corrosive psychological influences of parental pampering and neglect, but he also emphasizes three social influences that seriously inhibit the development of social interest in children as well as adults: war, capital punishment, and racial prejudice. The media may focus on gun control, mental illness of killers, or violent video games, but little attention is paid to the daily impact of killing for imperial purpose. Given the appropriate political or legal justification, murder can be framed as heroic or justified punishment. Do we know or care how a young child digests the impression that it is OK for the state to take another's life? Surely, this does not foster an increase in the feeling of community and an interest in the welfare of all of mankind. Our actions may suggest to children that it is acceptable to destroy any designated enemy.