Which curative factor in Yalom's framework is associated with members confronting meaning, purpose, and responsibility for their own lives?

Which curative factor in Yalom's framework is associated with members confronting meaning, purpose, and responsibility for their own lives?

• A. Catharsis
• B. Existential Factor
• C. Interpersonal Learning
• D. Universality

Answer: (B)

The key idea here is Yalom’s existential factor, a curative factor in group therapy. This dimension centers on members facing fundamental questions about existence—what gives life meaning, what their purpose is, and how much responsibility and freedom they have to shape their own lives. In the group, members explore how their choices and values reflect personal responsibility and authenticity, often contending with anxiety about isolation or mortality. Through this process, they gain clarity and may commit to changes in how they live, which is the therapeutic gain of this factor. This differs from catharsis (emotional release), universality (realizing others share the same feelings), and interpersonal learning (gaining skills for relating to others); the existential factor uniquely addresses meaning and responsibility.

The key idea here is Yalom’s existential factor, a curative factor in group therapy. This dimension centers on members facing fundamental questions about existence—what gives life meaning, what their purpose is, and how much responsibility and freedom they have to shape their own lives. In the group, members explore how their choices and values reflect personal responsibility and authenticity, often contending with anxiety about isolation or mortality. Through this process, they gain clarity and may commit to changes in how they live, which is the therapeutic gain of this factor. This differs from catharsis (emotional release), universality (realizing others share the same feelings), and interpersonal learning (gaining skills for relating to others); the existential factor uniquely addresses meaning and responsibility.