The Effects of Forgiveness Therapy on Depression, Anxiety and Posttraumatic Stress for Women after Spousal Emotional Abuse

Summary

The authors point out the overwhelming need to effectively address the significant problem of spousal emotional abuse in particular. This article is a compilation of information or research concerning the development, validity, and results of the technique of forgiveness therapy (FT) in comparison to alternative treatment (AT) for women who have experienced emotional abuse from a spouse or ‘significant’ other.

AT involves anger validation, assertiveness, and interpersonal skills, to provide an efficient treatment for emotionally abused women while FT involves focusing on compassion and sympathy for the abuser and letting go of any bitterness without excusing the act or consideration of reunion. The “aspects of FT fall within the four phases of the Enright forgiveness process- uncovering, decision, work, and discovery- are currently used in treatment and research” (Enright & Fitzgibbons, 2000).

While some may believe that FT hinders optimal recovery, it does in no way encourage reconciliation; rather, “makes a safe and distinct contribution to post-relationship/post-crisis therapy for abused women by promoting the practice of a specific moral quality as a way of integrating the past traumatic experience with current positive, empowering moral choices” (Astin, 1993; Frankl, 1969; Reed, 1998).

Systematic approaches were used to define the abuse and establish the ways to recognize the specific types of emotional abuse, such as jealous control, criticizing and ridiculing. Researchers give extensive accounts of the diagnosis process or assessment and comparative treatments (FT vs. AT) of the disordered behavior of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, to name a few.

Interactions

The article proposes that w...

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...fe coaching as well as professional counseling sessions.

Letting go of past trauma and unresolved pain feels like a weight has been lifted off of your head and heart. Once it’s gone, wisdom, peace and joy will take its place. Utilizing this information offers a structure in which to transform individuals and society which is a reinforcement to challenge and inspire others to move beyond conventional or learned paths of behavior to a greater, truer vision of themselves as they find freedom and personal empowerment.

Works Cited

Reed, G. L., & Enright, R. D. (2006). The effects of forgiveness therapy on depression, anxiety and posttraumatic stress for women after spousal emotional abuse. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 74(5), 920-929. doi: 10.1037/0022-006X.74.5.920

Enright & Fitzgibbons, (2000).

Astin, (1993).

Frankl, (1969).

Reed, (1998).