What it involves
Paradoxical intention (Ger. paradoxe Intention) is one of the best-known techniques of logotherapy, described by Frankl as early as 1939. The patient is asked to intend or even wish for what they fear - in an exaggerated, humorous form.
Why it works
Anticipatory anxiety brings about what we fear (see hyper-intention). When a paradoxical wish takes the place of fear, the vicious circle is broken. The technique relies on the capacity for self-distancing and on humour.
Examples
- Insomnia: instead of fighting for sleep, the patient decides to stay awake as long as possible tonight - and usually falls asleep quickly.
- Sweating: a patient afraid of sweating in front of others resolves: “I'll show them how well I can sweat - at least a litre today!”
- Fear of a heart attack: “Let me have a heart attack today - preferably three!”
Indications and limits
Used mainly for anticipatory anxiety, phobias, obsessions, stuttering and sleep disorders. It is not a technique for suicide risk or severe depression. Related approaches later appeared in behaviour therapy (exposure and paradoxical strategies).
Sources
V. E. Frankl, Theory and Therapy of Neuroses; Wikipedia: Logotherapy.