Existential social work and the quest for existential meaning and well-being: A conceptual framework

ABSTRACT

The aim of this article is to conceptualize “existential social work.” A greater understanding of what existential social work means may enable social workers and those studying social work to see how its practice can reveal “the truth” about human existence and how they, as professionals, can enhance existential meaning and existential well-being among their clients. In such work, existential social workers have at their disposal tools such as the Frankl therapeutic approach to existential analysis (i.e., logotherapy) as well as spiritual-sensitive modalities (prayer and mindfulness). To interpret and understand apparent phenomena in the therapy is the ultimate goal with existential social work practices, thus providing clients with the opportunity to discover the meaning that exists in themselves. In addition, these practices pave the way for existential well-being.     

论意义治疗理论在高校辅导员工作的应用

弗兰克尔的意义治疗理论建立在人们无生命意义感和心灵空虚之上,肯定生命中的意义与价值,引导来访者寻找和发现自己的生命意义,从而达到明确生活的目的。意义治疗理论能为高校辅导员工作提供宝贵的启示,引导大学生摆脱心灵空虚,正确面对人生挫折,积极追寻生命意义,逐步培养生命的社会责任感,进而发现生命的意义。