EMDR Forum Archive, 1999
In Memory of Victor Frankl
Francine Shapiro · 9/27/97 at 7:15 PM ET
In his seminal work, Man*s Search for Meaning (1959/184), a pivotal thought expressed by Victor Frankl is that true meaning and satisfaction in life is to be found only by transcending the common into a sense of greater purpose. Another pivotal thought is that one is free to choose one*s attitude in any circumstance. Both these ideas have direct pertinence to the practicing clinician.
In respect to the first of Frankl*s tenets, the need to focus on a higher purpose, it may be said that most clinicians entered into the field of psychology with a desire to assist others and help in the alleviation of suffering. They engage with the clients at a profound and intimate level in an attempt to meet this goal.
Trauma treatment itself echoes Frankl*s second tenet, regarding freedom of choice. Interestingly, but not surprisingly, since the source of the wisdom is an author who survived the holocaust, one of the greatest traumatization experiences in history, the healing of the trauma victim appears to produce an individual capable of actualizing Frankl*s second tenet. The recovered trauma victim reachieves the ability to choose his or her attitude within a given environment, rather than be primarily reactive. Frankl*s wisdom, insight, and contribution deserve integration into every form of psychotherapy.
I shall always regret not having met him. The field has suffered a tremendous loss with his passing.
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