Progressive triangulation in psychotherapy and the spiritual journey

Relationship triangles are usually considered symptomatic of family dysfunction in systems-oriented therapy, but they may also serve a progressive, transitional role in relationships. The author examines the phenomenon and function of "progressive" triangles in East and West spiritual trad...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Mental health, religion & culture religion & culture, 2008-12, Vol.11 (8), p.783-793
Main Author: Sparrow, Gregory Scott
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
family therapy
relationship triangles
spiritual mentoring
teleological transference
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Relationship triangles are usually considered symptomatic of family dysfunction in systems-oriented therapy, but they may also serve a progressive, transitional role in relationships. The author examines the phenomenon and function of "progressive" triangles in East and West spiritual traditions, and suggests that triangles comprising seeker, mediator, and higher power are common in both traditions, regardless of differing views of human nature. A progressive triangle in the therapeutic setting can be seen as a function of teleological transference, in which a seeker's spiritual aspirations are projected onto a mediator, who provides support and direction for its further realization. The implications of progressive triangulation and teleological transference in contemporary practice are discussed.
ISSN:1367-4676
1469-9737
DOI:10.1080/13674670802040087