When psychotherapy works: Pinpointing an element of change.

Abstract

Resolute perception is identified as a common factor in successful psychotherapy. It is defined as the steady and deliberate observation of, or attending to, anything that is intimidating, painful, or stultifying with therapeutic intent. In the context of psychotherapy, resolute perception-resperception for short-is directed toward something that would ordinarily be avoided, shunned, withdrawn from, or reacted to. The article defines, describes, and develops the concept and discusses it in the context of the dynamics of the client. It is distinguished from focused attention and is illustrated as a fundamental process intrinsic to successful psychotherapy, but not one that all therapy can be reduced to. Resolute perception represents a step toward the goal of a coherent and unified psychotherapy.