Is It a Sin to Talk About Sin in Therapy?

James Langley

Date of Award

4-4-2010

Document Type

Undergraduate Capstone Project

Degree Name

Psy.D.

Organizational Unit

Graduate School of Professional Psychology

First Advisor

Shelly Smith-Acuna

Second Advisor

Christina Lynch

Third Advisor

Michelle Novotny

Keywords

Sin in therapy

Abstract

The role of morality and sin in therapy is a controversial topic. However, therapy has a distinctly moral nature, and the Christian concept of sin provides a helpful framework within which the therapist can effectively respond to clients' feeling guilt for their wrong doing as they present in therapy. This paper discusses how the moral nature of therapy must be understood and embraced if it is to encourage both insight and increased self-efficacy in treatment. The Christian concept of sin is discussed as well as a psychological definition of sin and its effects. A potential treatment approach is presented which emphasizes responsibility and restoration through insight, compassion, and increased self-efficacy. This approach is then displayed through a case example.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.

Extent

52 pages

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