The Ability to Love as a Therapist-Offered Condition for Effective Therapeutic Encounter

Author

Allan David Edson, University of Texas Permian Basin

Date of Award

5-1977

Document Type

Research Project Report

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Pedagogical Studies

Supervisory Committee Chair

Richard E. Miller, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Andre Joseph, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Jon Swartz, Ph.D.

Abstract

This report begins with a historical reconstruction of the concept of therapist effectiveness in psychotherapy.

The ultimate objective is to further the work of Truax, Carkhuff, Bergin, et. al., by proposing that there is a still more basic comprehensive therapist-offered condition than accurate empathy, non-possessive warmth and genuineness. The thesis, as developed in this report, demonstrates that the aforementioned three conditions are merely constituents of the therapist's "ability to love."

Explained within, are the proposed reasons "why" the therapist's "ability to love" effects constructive personality change and the implications of the thesis for development of new models of psychotherapeutic technique, therapist-counselor trainee selection and training programs.

Recommended Citation

Edson, Allan David, "The Ability to Love as a Therapist-Offered Condition for Effective Therapeutic Encounter" (1977). Graduate Theses. 25.
https://falconcommons.utpb.edu/utpb-edu/25