The Similarities and Differences Between Existential Empathy in Therapeutic Practice and Wise Coping During the Great Depression Years

Abstract

Monika Ardelt comments on the similarities and differences between existential empathy in therapy and wise coping as discussed in her chapter on the Great Depression. She also suggests how the effectiveness of existential empathy in therapy could be empirically tested. As the experiences during the Great Depression were mostly economic hardships, it might not have prompted the same type of existential crises as a traumatic event. Yet, there were similarities in sharing existential empathy and providing communal support through both therapeutic practices and the support survivors of the Great Depression experienced.