A review of client self-criticism in psychotherapy

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2013

Abstract

Research on the construct of self-criticism has been gaining attention in the psychopathology and psychotherapy literature. The aims of this review are to provide an integrated theoretical and empirical understanding of client self-criticism and its implications for psychopathology and processes of self-critical change. Cognitive, emotion-focused, and psychodynamic therapy approaches are reviewed to highlight the ways in which self-criticism is addressed across different psychotherapies. Implications for treatment are put forward based upon the strengths of the different approaches in developing a self-protective and self-compassionate stance toward self-criticism

Publisher

Journal of Psychotherapy Integration, American Psychological Association

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