Processing mental objects directly: Therapeutic application of phenomenology

Abstract

When the phenomenological method is applied to mental phenomena their object aspect becomes apparent in a way that contrasts with their meaning aspect. William James described this objective aspect of mental life as early as 1904, but it seems to have been overlooked as an approach to psychopathology. In stepping outside of the natural attitude and directly viewing psychopathology, a hidden, “tangible,” element of inner turmoil is disclosed that is described here as a Phenomenologically Observable Dictate or POD. The technique for dealing with PODs is described. The author claims that the technique opens new avenues of access to some forms of psychopathology, although it does not consist of a complete therapy unto itself.