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On the pathology of blaming

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Abstract

This paper focuses on blaming, which is the commonest of the three major forms of pathogenic relating the writer has observed in family interviews (the other two being silencing and a style of relating in which certain values strictly dominate over others). Case examples of blaming and the harmful consequences that may follow are presented. Not all blaming is pathogenic, but all blaming reflects a polarization of values in which tensions are increased and the threshold of aggression is lowered. Commonplace examples are given in which blaming has led to lethal assault, and in which it is believed to have led to emotional and/or behavioral disturbance in individuals.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. 210 State Street, 70118, New Orleans, Louisiana

    Gerald H. Zuk (consultant in family therapy)

Authors
  1. Gerald H. Zuk
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Zuk, G.H. On the pathology of blaming. International Journal of Family Therapy 6, 143–155 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00926927

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00926927

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