confrontational method

an approach that aims to change behavior in individuals by aggressively compelling them to acknowledge their failures and weaknesses. Such methods are used, for example, in residential drug programs staffed by ex-addicts. Similar but less aggressive methods are used in encounter groups as a means of increasing awareness and modifying behavior. Research has not supported the efficacy of confrontational approaches, and many individuals subjected to them respond with increased resistance to change.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

divided consciousness

Ernest R. Hilgard’s characterization of dissociation as a state in which one stream of mental activity (e.g., perception, memory, planning) proceeds outside of phenomenal awareness and apparently outside of voluntary control. In his neodissociation theory, Hilgard proposed that this state could be best studied through hypnosis. See also coconsciousness; unity of consciousness.