A new model of integrating Occidental and Oriental approaches.
T Nagakawa, Y Ikemi
Journal of Psychosomatic Research 1982 DOI: 10.1016/0022-3999(82)90063-0 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Humans Psychophysiologic disorders Psychotropic drugs Autogenic training Stress, psychological Personality Consciousness Existentialism Models, psychological |
| Key points | Argues that Western psychotherapeutic approaches (psychoanalysis, behavior modification, existential-humanistic psychology, autogenic therapy) and Eastern approaches (Yoga, Zen, acupuncture, fasting therapy, Morita therapy) are complementary rather than competing. The author contends Eastern methods generally induce an altered state of consciousness marked by heightened self-normalization and restored homeostasis, and that Morita therapy, which emphasizes accepting reality as it is and promoting constructive ego function, is effective for suitable cases. |
Abstract
In the Western countries, dynamically oriented psychoanalysis, behaviour modification based on learning principles and existential, humanistic psychology have been widely used as treatment modalities for neuroses and psychosomatic disorders. Autogenic therapy for relaxation and self-control has been utilized. In the Orient, Yoga, Zen, Acupuncture and Fasting Therapy have been applied to various neuroses and psychosomatic conditions. These unique Oriental approaches, in general, induce an altered state of consciousness in the subjects, and the characterized by the heightening of self-normalization and the restoration of homeostasis. Morita therapy aims at accepting reality as it is and at promoting constructive ego function, and is effective for suitable cases. The above-mentioned Western approaches, which are rather psychosomatic, and the Oriental approaches, which are rather somatopsychic, are considered to be complementary within the framework of a holistic and integrative therapeutic model.