The use of paradox in psychotherapy has mushroomed in recent years. Along with its increased popularity this therapeutic tactic for change has generated strong opposition in some Christian quarters. Critics charge that therapists who use these techniques are manipulative, uncaring, cold, dishonest, and unethical. This discussion considers these allegations in the following fashion: A variety of such techniques and their ethical implications will be described using current and scriptural examples, therapist variables associated with the use of paradox will be considered, and the issue of who and what is responsible for therapeutic change in “paradoxical therapy” will be discussed.
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