Full Description
Forgiveness is a frequent challenge in life and a common concern of clients in psychotherapy. While it is easy to see the emotional benefits of forgiveness, actually forgiving a transgressor can be difficult. And the process may be either helped or hindered by the way one relates to the sacred. In some cases, spiritual transformation may be needed before one is able to forgive.
This book presents a model of forgiveness and relational spirituality based on clinical practice and supported by empirical research. Everett L. Worthington, Jr., and Steven J. Sandage bring together decades of experience as both researchers and clinicians to show the differing ways in which spiritual and religious experiences can shape concerns, values, and practices that may facilitate or hinder forgiveness among clients. Their model highlights relational factors (attachment and differentiation) and action-oriented interventions for emotion regulation. Applications are described for short-term therapy, long-term therapy, couple and family therapy, and group therapy.
Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
I. Theory and Evidence
How Forgiveness Helps People Cope With Transgressions
How Spiritual Transformation Occurs
How Attachment Affects Spirituality and Why Spiritual Transformation May Be Needed to Forgive
Evidence Supporting the Models
II. Promoting Forgiveness
Helping People Forgive
Forgiveness in Brief Psychotherapy
Case Study of Forgiveness in Brief Psychotherapy
Forgiveness in Long-Term Psychotherapy
Case Study of Forgiveness in Long-Term Psychotherapy
Forgiveness in Couples and Family Therapy
Forgiveness in Group Interventions
Afterword
Appendix: Measures to Assess Aspects of the Victim - Sacred and (Victim's Perception of) the Offender - Sacred Relationship
References
Index
About the Authors
