Toward an integrative perspective on resistance to change

Abstract

In this article, resistance is looked at in an integrative way that attempts to abstract and synthesize the main assumptions made by the different therapy approaches. The phenomena of resistance can be seen at the behavioral, interpersonal, cognitive, and affective levels. A set of integrative working assumptions are proposed in which resistance reflects meaningful information about clients' conflicts among various aspects of themselves relating to change. In addition to this intrapersonal perspective, resistance is also seen as determined by interpersonal factors, and can occur with or without conscious awareness. Integrative approaches to working with these conflicts are described. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.