A Study of the Psychological Transformation Process of Naikan Resistance Group members within Naikan therapy: Focusing on Client Narratives.

Abstract

  This study presents a hypothetical model of the psychological processes involved in Naikan resistance. A survey was conducted of individuals who showed difficulty in accepting and responding to Naikan Therapy. They were interviewed after their Naikan experience, and the content of their interviews was analyzed for insight into their processes of transformation during Naikan, and for the distinctive features of their resistance.

  The participants could not get used to the environment of Naikan, and held on to negative images of the therapy. Additionally, they felt mistrust towards the Naikan therapist, were critical of him/her and never asked him/her for advice. The participants were all strongly adherent to their own ideals without accepting their present reality. Considering these features, we can state that it is extremely painful for clients in the Naikan resistance group to have a Naikan experience. the results of this study provide concrete guidance for therapist goal-setting, and for how to deal with clients exhibiting Naikan resistance.