Abstract
The person-centered approach (PCA) is strongly related to systems theory: The core theoretical and explanatory principle—actualizing tendency—was coined by the Gestalt psychologist Kurt Goldstein. Moreover, in some of his late papers, Rogers stressed the relationship of PCA and interdisciplinary systems theory. Starting from this historical perspective, this chapter provides an introduction into some core concepts of systems theory. The actualizing tendency in PCA is connected to the phase transition in systems theory, both representing transformational processes from old, inadequate patterns to new, better adjusted ones. This notion refers to Goethe’s famous slogan of transformation “Die and Become!” where symptoms are an over-stability of patterns inadequate to solve new tasks. These patterns are familiar to the person, and their “death” is coupled with angst and horror. Therefore, a supporting personal relationship, characterized by the “necessary and sufficient conditions” and giving of trust to that “die and become,” is so important. The chapter concludes with an outline of the “Person-Centered Systems Theory” which focuses on processes in different levels of human life. While the PCA has very well-developed person-to-person relationships, it has neglected structural influences of culture, meaning, and language as well as their interconnections. An integration of these aspects into the PCA would be of value.
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Notes
- 1.
It should be noticed that such examples and terms like “trust” reduce the complexity and diversity of real life extremely. Of course, the behavior of both the man and the woman has many aspects and reasons.
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Kriz, J. (2013). Person-Centered Approach and Systems Theory. In: Cornelius-White, J., Motschnig-Pitrik, R., Lux, M. (eds) Interdisciplinary Handbook of the Person-Centered Approach. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-7141-7_18
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