Introduction
In psychology, there are numerous approaches to therapy aimed at helping individuals. The specialist faces the task of choosing the most appropriate option based on a variety of factors, including patient characteristics, personal values, experiences, and ideas about counseling. These aspects will provide an opportunity to determine the counselor’s role in this process and the approach to work.
One of the valuable concepts to study is Viktor Frankl’s theory of existence, known as logotherapy, which is based on the idea of helping individuals find meaning. The study of Victor Frankl’s theory of existence will provide a deeper understanding of its fundamental principles and how it can be effectively applied in counseling and the helping relationship.
Before discussing the basic principles and concepts highlighted by Viktor Frankl, it is worthwhile to examine the approach he developed, known as logotherapy. The research defines it as a “psychotherapeutic technique predicated upon the ‘meaning of human existence as well as on man’s search for such a meaning” (Schimmoeller & Rothhaar, 2021, p. 99). The psychotherapist emphasized that the central and priority aspect of a person’s life is the search for meaning or logos, which gave rise to the name of this approach. Thus, logotherapy relies on man’s responsibility to use freedom in accordance with logos rather than other motivators, such as the pleasure principle or striving for superiority.
It is worth noting that the most severe events he had to endure significantly contributed to the development and formulation of Victor Frankl’s thoughts on the existence of man and the reasons for this. Hence, during the Second World War, he was placed with the rest of the Jewish race in concentration camps. In these places, he had to face not only incomparable conditions with life but also various overwhelming and terrifying feelings. Bushkin et al. (2021) stated that “the death camps solidified the foundation for his later psychiatric practice in assisting patients to find meaning in their lives regardless of external circumstances” (p. 233). Therefore, the search for the meaning of life and what happens to individuals has become fundamental to the logotherapeutic approach developed by Viktor Frankl.
Major Points of the Theory
Overview
The next step is to define the central tenets, concepts, techniques, and view of pathology and normality, as well as the application of a consistent theory developed by Viktor Frankl. Additionally, it is valuable to consider this approach in the context of counseling theory and the helping relationship. This is because mental health specialists frequently employ the examined theory to help individuals cope with personal challenges and navigate difficult life circumstances.
Viktor Frankl’s existential theory is a highly productive and practical approach in counseling and psychotherapy. By focusing on the meaning of certain events, it also addresses patients’ values and beliefs. Another feature of logotherapy as a theory of existence is its foundation on the premise that people are motivated to find meaning in their existence. Parker, G. (2022) pointed out that within the framework of this theory, “meaning cannot be obtained without suffering, and that suffering allows meaning to be identified” (p. 742). Discovering and understanding this aspect brings mental balance and insight into what is expected of a person in life, and this search for meaning is crucial for overall mental and emotional well-being.
Search for Meaning
Thus, the first central tenet of the theory under consideration is the search for meaning; as already mentioned, it becomes the basis on which all other concepts of this approach in psychology are based. Frankl, in his approach to understanding human existence, considers the search for meaning an innate drive and motivation. Only by reaching this understanding can people find mental peace, well-being, and happiness.
Free Will
Another tenet that comes from the previous one is free will. Logotherapy emphasizes that people’s lives are filled with suffering and difficulties, which play a critical role in finding meaning. It depends directly on individuals how they will handle the situation and at what pace it will be resolved. Thus, the development and formation of understanding, as well as the power of freedom, will play an essential role in the treatment of patients within the framework of logotherapy.
Existential Vacuum
The next important concept in Frankl’s theory of existence is the existential vacuum. This phenomenon is defined as “loss of both life fulfillment and existential meaning as crucial elements” (Riethof & Bob, 2019, p. 1). This problem can be compared to burnout, as individuals experience similar symptoms. Due to the loss of a sense of necessity and the meaning of life, people face constant stress, which may later result in more severe mental abnormalities such as anxiety or depression. Existential vacuum, characterized by a feeling of emptiness and purposelessness, is one of the issues that Frankl’s logotherapy helps to address.
Noogenic Neurosis
Another concept worth paying attention to is noogenic neurosis. Its introduction into the field of psychotherapy provided a significant impetus to this area, leading to a deeper understanding of the mental dynamics of society. Within the framework of Viktor Frankl’s existential theory, two types of neurosis are distinguished: psychogenic and noogenic, in which the first arises due to psychological factors. The concept of noogenic neurosis implies “neuroses caused by conflicts between different values, senses, and also with ethical norms of the person” (Utyuzh & Kandybei, 2019, p. 45). This problem arises from individuals’ inability to find meaning and purpose in life.
Pathology and Normality
Particular importance should be given to how logotherapy conceptualizes the relationship between pathology and normality. Based on the above information, pathology is a condition in which an individual cannot independently find the meaning of life without the help of a specialist, which causes mental problems. Therefore, normality is defined as people’s full awareness of aspects such as a sense of purpose and the ability to deal with various difficulties. This understanding of normality and pathology is adequate when applying Frankl’s existential theory. Hence, it has been used in various areas of psychotherapy to help patients overcome challenging life situations. In particular, it has significant results in cases of depression, anxiety, and existential crises.
Role of Personal Values, Experiences, and Ideas
The following aspects need to be analyzed when studying Viktor Frankl’s existential theory: personal experiences, values, and ideas about counseling patients. These concepts, derived from individuals seeking help, are useful for determining the counselor’s role in the psychotherapy process. This is because, upon gaining this awareness, specialists may have a clear understanding of which measures and interventions can have the greatest impact when counseling and creating helping relationships.
Personal Values
The first component is the personal values of individuals who seek help from therapists. The primary task of a counselor is to convey an understanding of the importance of existence and the initiatives that will help achieve it. In other words, there is a need to prioritize helping clients explore their values and aspirations to find the purpose of their lives. The creation of this standard value and its understanding can significantly increase the effectiveness of the psychotherapy process.
Responsibility and Empowerment
Responsibility and empowerment are also among the critical components of applying Victor Frankl’s existential theory. This is because therapists who understand and promote personal responsibility and decision-making empowerment can achieve greater success (Costello, 2019). This is because the concept aligns with an understanding of the leading role of free will. Thus, the development of responsibility and empowerment will help increase individuals’ motivation to make decisions that transform the situations they find themselves in and determine the purpose of their lives.
Autonomy
When considering the phenomenon of free will, it is worth noting that, in introducing logotherapy and its foundations, it is also necessary to highlight the value of autonomy. Thus, individuals who receive psychological help should be fully aware that everything that happens in their lives depends on them. Similarly, how quickly or slowly the periods of crisis and struggle pass also depends on the decisions they make to address them. Consequently, counselors face the critical task of teaching patients this autonomy and instilling in them the understanding that they alone are responsible for the course of their lives.
Experience
Within the framework of Viktor Frankl’s existential theory, a special place should be given to the aspect of experience. First of all, it provides an opportunity to gain valuable personal experience and lessons that individuals will need in the future. This will provide an opportunity to limit situations and factors that can lead to repeated periods of suffering and difficulty. Thus, the task of specialists providing psychological assistance is to help individuals understand that personal experience is an integral part of life and can be achieved only through self-discovery and finding meaning in their own lives. Sharing a counselor’s experience that shows them their value and the meaning of life can be particularly effective.
Ideas about counseling are the last but no less important aspect to consider when studying the theory of logotherapy. It has critical value because it allows people to transform the attitude of both patients and specialists regarding the process of providing support and creating helping relationships. Thus, taking into account factors such as experience and personal values, the counselor’s goal should be to explore patients’ thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. Thus, applying Frankl’s theory through these indicators of human personality can provide an opportunity to gain awareness of the meaning of individuals’ lives.
Person-Centered Approach
When considering Frankl’s existential theory, it is essential to note that it is grounded in a person-centered approach. This policy implies the “promotion of the health and well-being of the totality of the person, implying the recognition of the individual subjectivity beyond what characterizes a mental disorder or the status of patients” (Galbusera et al., 2022, p. 2). From this information, it follows that when developing an individual work plan, the consultant should take into account each patient’s wishes, needs, and characteristics, and rely on them when communicating and building relationships. In addition, for specialists in psychotherapy, it is necessary to demonstrate qualities such as empathy and understanding.
Counselor’s Role in Logotherapy
Based on the information provided, it is possible to identify aspects of the counselor’s role in applying Frankl’s theory. First of all, these individuals are assistants in the process of uncovering the meaning of patients’ lives, which will contribute to more productive solutions to their problems. Moreover, counselors provide individuals with the opportunity to discover the values and beliefs that determine their approach to life. The role of specialists working in logotherapy also includes fostering hope and optimism, recognizing that every experience a person has is valuable and contributes to their personal growth.
Conclusion
In short, Viktor Frankl’s existential theory, called logotherapy, can play an important role in making psychological care more effective. This is because it provides unique insight into how many of an individual’s problems and struggles can be solved through awareness and understanding of the meaning and purpose of their lives. The application of this theory in practice provides an opportunity not only to solve patients’ problems but also to foster helping relationships among the parties involved, to realize personal values, and to appreciate the importance of experience for people’s lives and well-being.
References
Bushkin, H., van Niekerk, R., & Stroud, L. (2021). Searching for meaning in chaos: Viktor Frankl’s story. Europe’s Journal of Psychology, 17(3), 233.
Costello, S. J. (2019). Applied logotherapy: Viktor Frankl’s philosophical psychology. Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
Galbusera, L., Fuchs, T., Holm-Hadulla, R. M., & Thoma, S. (2022). Person-centered psychiatry as dialogical psychiatry: The significance of the therapeutic stance. Psychopathology, 55(1), 1-9.
Parker, G. (2022). In search of logotherapy. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 56(7), 742-744.
Riethof, N., & Bob, P. (2019). Burnout syndrome and logotherapy: Logotherapy as useful conceptual framework for explanation and prevention of burnout. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 10, 382.
Schimmoeller, E. M., & Rothhaar, T. W. (2021). Searching for meaning with Victor Frankl and Walker Percy. The Linacre Quarterly, 88(1), 94-104.
Utyuzh, I. G., & Kandybei, V. (2019). Use of the philosophical methodology in psychotherapeutic practice: on the example of Victor E. Frankl existential psychoanalysis. Fifth International Conference of European Academy of Science.