Paradoxical Intention

Paradoxical intention is a therapeutic technique that involves encouraging a person to engage in and amplify the symptoms or behaviors they are trying to suppress. Developed by Austrian psychiatrist Viktor Frankl, paradoxical intention operates on the premise that by intentionally exaggerating the very issue one is seeking to alleviate, a person can experience a reduction in anxiety or tension related to that issue. This counterintuitive approach aims to disrupt the automatic and unconscious patterns of anxiety and fear, allowing the individual to gain a new perspective and sense of control over their emotions or symptoms. By embracing the symptom rather than fighting it, individuals may experience a shift in their perception, leading to a decrease in the intensity of their distress. Paradoxical intention has been particularly useful in the treatment of various anxiety disorders and phobias, offering a unique way to confront and manage these challenges.