ALTRUISM AND FORGIVENESS AS THERAPEUTIC AGENTS IN PSYCHOTHERAPY

This article suggests that a more altruistic or other-directed perspective is as therapeutic for clients as a self-centered orientation which is more often promoted by psychotherapists. It also proposes that forgiveness may be an important therapeutic factor in helping clients deal with anger and resentment. Religious and spiritual teachings (especially those of Christianity), which have been greatly ignored by mental health professionals, are viewed as potentially valuable resources. © 1990 Institutes of Religion and Health.