Carl Rogers and Schizophrenia. The evolution of Carl Rogers’ thinking on psychosis and schizophrenia: a literature survey

ABSTRACT In Carl Rogers’ written work schizophrenia and psychotic symptoms are mentioned over 2300 times. The use of the terms reflects the theoretical background prevailing at the time as well as the practical experience of Carl Rogers. Over the course of the publications a change in access to psychotic phenomena can be observed. In early years, Rogers viewed psychosis as fundamentally different from neurotic or ‘normal’ conditions. He emphasizes the inability of psychotherapy to treat psychosis. This perspective changes with the theoretical development of the person-centered approach. The concept of the dichotomy of neurosis and psychosis is rejected. Rogers is increasingly distancing himself from diagnostic labeling. He succeeds in presenting psychosis as an understandable process and thereby making it accessible to psychotherapy. The description of possible dangers in the therapeutic relationship are initially emphasized, but are losing importance in favor of a strong sense of confidence in the possibilities of the person-centered approach.