Logotherapy, sometimes defined as meaning-centered psychotherapy, is a kind of therapy in which an individual is confronted with the meaning of their life and then reoriented towards it.

Before Viktor Frankl’s entrance into the concentration camps at the age of 37, he had already developed logotherapy. However, his experiences in the direst of human conditions served as an unwelcome laboratory that validated his theory. He observed that individuals who held an orientation towards a meaningful purpose were more likely to endure.

The guiding principles of logotherapy express Frankl’s philosophical attitude toward life.

Freedom Of Will

The meaning of life remains constant regardless of one’s circumstances, as long as one is conscious. External and internal forces shape one’s experiences, but one has the power to choose their attitude toward these circumstances. 

This concept was demonstrated by Frankl and his fellow prisoners in the concentration camps. They showed that having a sense of purpose increases one’s chances of survival in even the most horrific conditions.

Frankl often quoted Nietzsche, who believed that understanding the reason behind one’s suffering enables one to endure any hardship.

Meaning holds significant power in all aspects of life, whether it’s physical, familial, occupational, or mental. Therefore, it’s essential to search for meaning in all stages of life, including near death. 

The Human Spirit’s Power of Defiance

The resilience of the human spirit is crucial for survival, even in old age. Frankl introduced this concept to highlight the human ability to resist destructive internal or external forces.

We should not passively submit to the challenges that life presents, particularly the disasters that fate may impose upon us. Instead, we can rebel against them and harness our defiance as a means of survival at any stage of life.

The Three Dimensions of a Human

The human experience encompasses physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects. It is essential to recognize that individuals should never be devalued as mere “nothing buts.” This means that one should not reduce a person to just one of the dimensions mentioned above or view them solely as machines in need of fixing.

Focusing only on the psychosocial dimension can undermine a person’s self-esteem and sense of worth. It is crucial to honor the dignity of every human being by acknowledging and addressing all dimensions of their existence.

The Human Spirit Is The Core Of Each Human Being

Logotherapy suggests that an individual may experience illness in their body or soul, but their spirit remains unaffected and free. This approach asserts that the human spirit is not bound to the physical or emotional state of a person.

Therefore, individuals have the freedom to choose how they respond to the events they encounter.

Capacity To Rise Above And Beyond 

This principle states that humans possess a remarkable capacity to transcend their physical or mental limitations through a profound love for someone in need.

Live In The Present And Look Forward To The Future

Our present circumstances are shaped not just by our past, but also by our aspirations for the future. We can only muster the motivation and willingness to make sacrifices when we believe they are essential to achieving a significant goal. Rather than dwelling on the past, we should focus on the present and direct our attention toward the goals we hope to accomplish in order to live a purposeful life.

Related: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Each Man Is Unique And Irreplaceable

Every person is one-of-a-kind and irreplaceable.

We demonstrate our distinctiveness by the positive impact we make on the world, our creativity and approach to life, the manner in which we maintain relationships, how we cope with pain and hardship, and our ability to seize opportunities that come our way.

Additionally, our sense of purpose and fulfillment stems from recognizing our individuality. No one can take our place, as each of us is entirely unique.

Meaning Is Subjective And Changing

Every situation in life offers a chance to uncover significance, and it is up to the individual to seize or squander the inherent opportunity in that situation.

The meaning that is discovered is subjective, and it cannot be purchased or bestowed upon others. Each person must explore the distinctive significance of their own life since life presents numerous opportunities for discovering the unique purpose of our existence.

The Meaning Of The Moment

It’s crucial to reiterate that the significance of a moment may not always be apparent to us, and we need to exercise patience to uncover it.

We must apply our intellect to seize it, as failing to find meaning in life’s opportunities can lead to sadness or even despair.

Responsibility For Our Choices

The concept of responsibility involves being able to meet the challenges of life at a specific moment. Logotherapy differs from other current theories by emphasizing the importance of taking personal responsibility for our actions and errors in life.

Regardless of whether our choices lead to positive or negative outcomes, we must acknowledge our responsibility and avoid scapegoating others for our shortcomings. In every situation, there are choices to be made, and we must recognize and evaluate these options based on their significance to our lives.

Spiritual Tension

Tension and stress play integral roles in the human experience and commonly stand as the primary adversaries of modern humanity. Logotherapy proposes that achieving personal goals and objectives does not require equilibrium or homeostasis to prevent tension; rather, it suggests that spiritual tension is necessary. This tension is vital for leading a meaningful life and acts as a potent motivator in attaining significant goals.

Frankl asserts that mental health relies on maintaining a certain level of tension between what one has already accomplished and what one hopes to achieve. When a goal is reached, this tension emerges, prompting individuals to seek new objectives and purposes that imbue their lives with meaning.

Nirvana, characterized by a tensionless state, is not deemed essential. Instead, individuals must remain driven to discover fresh goals and endeavor to fulfill them.

Discovering Meaning In Life Is Not A Gift, But An Achievement

One cannot be aware of their limitations until life compels one to confront them. The search for personal meaning is an individual journey that cannot be bestowed upon others. It is up to each person to discern their purpose based on their own comprehension, skills, and endeavors. 

A Positive Attitude Toward Life

A positive attitude towards life is the manifestation of change, which leads to personal and spiritual growth and development. However, therapy is necessary only when the change fails to evoke a sense of growth.

Happiness Is A By-Product Of Meaning In Life

According to the final principle of living a meaningful life, we are not entitled to pleasure from life. Instead, we must discover our own meaning, and happiness, pleasure, wealth, power, and other worldly advantages are only the result of finding meaning in life.

Summary

Logotherapy, an empowering therapeutic approach, highlights the significance of discovering purpose and meaning in life despite facing adversity. By identifying potential sources of meaning and aligning them with our individual values and strengths, we can attain the deepest sense of joy and purpose.

References:

1. Frankl, V. E., Lasch, I., Kushner, H. S., & Wnislade, W. J. (2015). Man’s search for meaning. Boston, MA: Beacon Press.
2. Guttmann, D. (2008). Finding meaning in life, at midlife and beyond: Wisdom and spirit from Logotherapy. Westport, CT: Praeger.
3. Melissa Madeson, P. (2023, February 16). Logotherapy: Viktor Frankl’s theory of meaning. Retrieved March 18, 2023, from https://positivepsychology.com/viktor-frankl-logotherapy/