| Popis: |
Background Nonverbal behavior is considered an important factor of the therapeutic relationship across therapy schools. Despite a multitude of findings from a fruitful research phase in the 1960s–1980s, the currently available knowledge in this area is relatively moderate, and specific instructions for its use in psychotherapy remain rare. Research question Based on a practical model for the theory-independent utilization of nonverbal signals, a beneficial consideration and integration of this channel of communication is proposed. Material and methods The iCAST model with its five domains offers a possible framework, which encourages the concrete usage of nonverbal signals in psychotherapeutic interactions. An exemplary analysis of the movement behavior of therapists illustrates the current technological possibilities and offers insights into the potential of this observational position. Results Nonverbal signals expand the therapeutic degrees of freedom in diverse areas: besides the countless possibilities to address elements and to experience and practice them in sessions, nonverbal behavior can also provide important information on the level of case conceptualization. Discussion The focus on the dyad underlines the dynamic, joint process between patient and therapist and invites therapists to reflect on their own feelings and behavior against the background of mutual influence (attunement) and to incorporate them into the therapeutic process. |
