Abstract
An introduction to the key concepts in a new psychoanalytic theory, “control-mastery theory” is offered. The role of the trauma and the resulting development of pathogenic beliefs is emphasized in the etiology of all psychopathology. The clinical interventions therapists can use to help patients disconfirm pathogenic beliefs are described. An empirical study is referred to which demonstrates the power of the theory to predict the patient's immediate reactions to the therapist's termination interpretations (Bush & Gassner 1986).
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Bush, M. & Gassner, S. (1986). The immediate effects of the analyst's termination intervention on the patient's resistance to termination. In J. Weiss, et al.,The psychoanalytic process: theory, clinical observation and empirical research. New York: Guilford Press, 299–320.
Freud, S. (1926).Inhibitions, symptoms and anxiety.Standard edition. London: Hogarth Press, Vol. 20, 77–175.
Weiss, J., Sampson, H., & the Mount Zion Psychotherapy Research Group (1986).The psychoanalytic process: theory, clinical observation and empirical research. New York: Guilford Press.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
This is an informal term used by the Mount Zion Psychotherapy Research Group to refer to the theory which is presented in this paper. The control portion of the term refers to the hypothesis that patients can exercise some control over their unconscious mental life. The mastery portion of the term refers to the hypothesis that psychotherapy patients are motivated to master their problems in treatment.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Bush, M., Gassner, S.M. A description and clinical research application of the control-mastery theory. Clin Soc Work J 16, 231–242 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00753293
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00753293