Clinical practice is inseparable from its theoretical base. Use of the term “pathology,” with its roots in the disease model, introduces pejorative overtones into theory formation in the field of psychotherapy. This article explores the clinical and philosophical implications of two related questions: What is an accurate and useful way to think about the Child ego state(s), and how does a clinician's approach to “pathology” in the Child ego state affect the “I'm OK–You're OK” existential position upon which TA practice is based? Related concepts from TA, object relations, and self psychology are considered in seeking answers to these questions.
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