Stimulating unconscious processes with metaphors and narrative

Abstract

ABSTRACT Metaphors, analogies, fairy tales, parables, myths, aphorisms, anecdotes, stories are effective communication tools used for educational, suggestive and persuasive purposes. They are part of pragmatic and strategic communication with the intent to convey values, suggest feelings, thoughts and behavior aimed at improving the clinical outcome. In the philosophical field these tools are used to concretely explain an abstract thought, such as Schopenhauer’s story of porcupines to send the message of the right distance between people: neither too close not to be stung, nor too distant not to feel cold. Freud also used a metaphor to explain the concept of the unconscious as the hidden part of the iceberg. In the psychotherapeutic field these tools are used by those who believe in the greater effectiveness of indirect communication. Metaphors and narratives are intended to address a creative unconscious that can autonomously make connections that promote a process of evolutionary change without having to sift through the logic and rationality of the conscious mind. This article describes the personal use of these tools by the author in her therapeutic practice.