Meaning and Psychosis: An Intersubjective Approach to the Treatment of Schizophrenia
Date of Award
7-2014
Document Type
Undergraduate Capstone Project
Degree Name
Psy.D.
Organizational Unit
Graduate School of Professional Psychology
First Advisor
Peter Buirski
Second Advisor
Pamela Haglund
Third Advisor
Artur Poczwardowski
Keywords
Intersubjective, Psychosis, Schizophrenia, Relational
Abstract
This paper is an exploration of the conceptualization and treatment of two men diagnosed with schizophrenia using intersubjective systems theory. This theory understands the development and expression of severe psychopathology as a way of protecting self-experience from annihilation. Treatment from this perspective focuses on the dynamic system within the therapeutic dyad as a lens through which to understand and give voice to experience, as well as make new meanings out of experience. In this paper, there is a brief exploration of current popular treatments of schizophrenia and their limitations. Intersubjective systems theory is then presented, with a focus on conceptualization of the psychoses and severe psychopathology. Finally, two case studies are used to highlight an intersubjective systems approach in the understanding and treatment of severe mental illness.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Extent
45 pages
Recommended Citation
Niver, Laura, "Meaning and Psychosis: An Intersubjective Approach to the Treatment of Schizophrenia" (2014). Graduate School of Professional Psychology: Doctoral Papers and Masters Projects. 45.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/capstone_masters/45