Metaphoric Associative Cards in the Work of a Psychologist

Abstract

The aim of the article is to describe the advantages of metaphoric associative cards as a tool in the work of a psychologist. Methods of research. To solve the tasks, a set of theoretical methods was used: analysis, synthesis, generalization of the material presented in the scientific literature on the problem under study. The results of the research. The psychological functions of metaphoric associative cards are analyzed. It is shown that the implementation of these functions makes it possible to effectively use metaphoric cards as diagnostic and psychocorrectional tools. The purposes of exercises based on metaphoric associative cards are generalized. It is presented that the goals are directly related to the manifestation and implementation of various psychological functions. The emphasis is placed on the fact that the rules for applying metaphoric cards are as flexible as possible and serve as a guide for creating the desired context in which everyone gets access to his or her creative background. Conclusions. It is demonstrated that metaphoric associative cards (projective or psychotherapeutic cards) are used as a special psychodiagnostic and psychotherapeutic tool in professional psychological practice, including in the activities of the moderator of psychological groups (for «warming up» the group, establishing trusting relationships between group members, for diagnosing the actual needs of the group, etc.). It is substantiated that associations that occur in a person when describing a card and commenting to them, reveal current states, experiences and needs, allow to identify basic fears and desires, internal conflicts, to determine personality traits, life strategies and goals, personal meaning of past experience, to «see» resources (both internal and external). It is described that metaphoric associative cards, through metaphor (associations) allow to quickly get access to a stressful situation, which on the one hand, helps to identify incomplete internal processes, and on the other hand, to avoid additional retraumatization. In addition, MAC create a safe context for finding and modeling solutions, launching internal processes of self-healing and searching for their unique way out of the crisis life situation.