A gestalt-experiential perspective on resistance

Abstract

In this article, we present background on the gestalt- experiential understanding of resistance, conceptualized to be either resistance to awareness or resistance to taking steps to have one's needs met. We discuss why we do not use the term “resistance” and describe the phenomenon as a client's self-protective attempt to avoid the anxiety necessitated by change. Such “resistant” behaviors occur outside a client's awareness and often result in an ambivalence or conflict about change. We also describe using in-session experiments as a way to engage with the client in exploring such a state of ambivalence or conflict. Finally, we respond to the case studies presented elsewhere in this issue and propose intervention strategies consistent with the gestalt-experiential perspective. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.