SENSES OF PROBLEM EXTERNALIZATION WITHIN NARRATIVE THERAPY

Abstract

Problem externalization is based on the linguistic separation of the problem and the patient’s personal identity. Together with narrative therapy, it is seen as a chance for people to take their difficulties to the language level. As human beings we are immerse in the narrative and the assessment of the meanings of our behaviors, by transforming them into narratives which make sense of our lives and relations. Through the narrative approach, a liberating dialogue takes place so that problems can be externalized. 

Externalization offers a means to look at people as another non-saturated, non-polluted-by-problems form of them. This generates insights that enable them to make their own decisions regarding the problem at issue, by building their own identity and distinguishing it from the problem. Narrative therapy acknowledges respect and self-esteem within the process, not only for the patient, but for the therapist as well.

    Narrative therapy supplies a set of appropriate questions, which develop liberating consciousness within the subjects, thus producing a re-narrative of their stories which assume an externalized vision of the problem at issue. This intends to liberate them and liberate all of those around them, thus preventing them from identifying the individual with the problem, and encouraging him to change.