Creative self and self-cohesion in psychosis therapy

Abstract

Fifty years after Adler's death, his insights into social sentiment and the creative self remain relevant, finding confirmation in sociological, mathematical, and psychological studies. Mutual cooperation, proven to be strategically advantageous, is a pillar of evolution, integrating with models of the self. The creative self, understood as the subjective core that governs personality and interprets experience, is crucial in adapting to social demands. In psychotherapy with psychotic patients, reactivating the creative self can promote the reintegration of structures fragmented by the psychotic process. The goal is to restore a sense of belonging and motivation in fundamental life tasks, promoting the growth of self-esteem and counteracting the psychotic process. Creativity emerges as a universal capacity of the individual, interacting with social feelings in a virtuous circle that increases self-esteem. The therapist must modulate creativity, empathy, and divergent thinking to establish consensual communication with the patient, promoting productive thinking. Strategies such as the “common dictionary” and small extra-setting projects help the patient develop a sense of belonging and initiate concrete changes. The multidisciplinary therapeutic network, including psychotherapy, pharmacology, and family support, supports this process