The Relational Structure of Human Dignity

This article argues that received accounts of the concept of human dignity face more difficulties than has been appreciated, when explaining the connection between human dignity and the duty of respect that dignity is supposed to generate. It also argues that a novel, relational, account has the adequate structure to explain such connection.     

Structure with Engagement: Toward an Integration of Trauma and Relational Psychoanalytic Models in the Treatment of Dissociative Disorders

Trauma model approaches to the treatment of dissociative disorders may provide containment and direction and yet, these same approaches may be constricting and limit exploration. However, relational psychoanalytic approaches may allow for engagement and exploration while potentially failing to provide containment and structure. This article provides an overview of key elements of both models and considers the question of whether it is possible to creatively resolve theoretical and clinical tensions between trauma model and relational psychoanalytic responses to dissociation. A review of the history of the study of dissociation in the field of psychoanalysis and concerns about psychoanalytic practice in the context of dissociation is followed by comparing contrasting conceptualizations of the assumptions of normality, definitions of dissociation, theories of etiology, goals of treatment, and theorized mechanisms of action. The review ends with a discussion of potential possibilities for clinical integration.     

I Believe in You! Measuring the experience of encouragement using the academic encouragement scale

ABSTRACT

To address limitations in conceptualizing and measuring encouragement, the authors developed the Academic Encouragement Scale (AES) to assess the experience of receiving challenge-focused encouragement (directed toward people facing difficult situations) and potential-focused encouragement (helping people realize a potential) within an academic context. Results from 714 college students supported a two-factor structure, corresponding to challenge-focused and potential-focused encouragement. Evidence for the reliability and construct validity of AES scores was provided. The two AES subscales uniquely and positively predicted hope and academic self-efficacy. Challenge-focused encouragement, but not potential-focused encouragement, uniquely and positively predicted campus connectedness. Campus connectedness, but not hope, mediated the relationship between challenge-focused encouragement and academic self-efficacy. In contrast, hope, but not campus connectedness, mediated the association between potential-focused encouragement and academic self-efficacy. Collectively, these findings underscore the distinction between challenge-focused and potential-focused encouragement, as well as the utility of the AES in providing a conceptually complex understanding of encouragement.