Unconditional positive regard reconsidered

Abstract

Unconditional positive regard is re-examined in the light of theory and practice in an attempt to understand how it operates. The communication of unconditional positive regard is a major curative factor in any approach to therapy; congruence and empathy merely provide the context in which it is credible. It is possible to demonstrate acceptance in a manner apparently conflicting with the client's frame of reference and for it still to effect positive change. The limiting factor in the effectiveness of counselling and psychotherapy is the extent to which the therapist is able perceptibly to extend unconditional positive regard to the client.