Relational Cultural Theory

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Relational Cultural Theory Name University Abstract Relational cultural theory (RCT) is a branch of psychology that refers to people interacting with others through the lens of relationships. When it is understood that relationships are the framework for thinking about how to guide interactions and self-awareness, the therapist and client can see how self-destructive isolation is and can work toward remedying that issue. The following paper examines the fundamental assumptions of RCT and how it differs from the traditional approach of psychological work toward men and women, otherwise espoused in ideas on the old psychology of men and women according to gender roles and human development. Principles and Fundamental Assumptions RCT was developed and advanced during the 1970’s by Jean Baker Miller, M.D., as an alternative approach to traditional psychology in dealing with men and women; RCT mostly refers to a feminist perspective, where relationships are emphasized as a lens to psychotherapy. Relationships are the core of RCT, as a guiding framework in understanding and healing in psychotherapy. RCT is often used in different fields where mental health issues are a characteristic of the work, such as in counseling, social work, psychology, and also in psychiatry (Walker, 2004). Fundamental principles of RCT are embodied in the concept of the Five Good Things that all people (should) experience in a relationship, and are as follows (Jordan, 2001): 1. A desire to move into more relationships due to the enjoyable relational experience they hold. 2. A sense of zest; an effusion of energy. 3. An increased knowledge of oneself in the relationship, and others. 4. A desire to take part in the growth of the relationship. 5. An overall sense of enhanced self-worth. Jordan (2001) stated that traditional ‘old’ psychological approaches to
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