The destructive pattern: an experiential and existential theory-building case study

Abstract

ABSTRACTDarkness and destruction are as much part of human life as depression, anxiety, and joy are. However, humanistic therapies – and especially the person-centered approach – have not been very explicit about how to deal with clients who leave a trace of sexual and physical violence behind them. The theory-building case study of Bruno not only helps us to broaden our theoretical understanding about patterns of destructive functioning, but also shows how a sustained effort in fostering the therapeutic relationship and the experiential processing of painful traumatic experiences can lead to an improved affect regulation, self-soothing, and self-acceptance. On an interpersonal and existential level, the client’s growing capacity to listen to his unfulfilled existential needs made him aware of his yearning for human connection. It also created an openness to search for meaning in life and connect with others in a deeper and meaningful way.