Self-realization therapy

A number of techniques may be used whose aim is to produce, with group support, sufficiently strong emotional reaction to break the self out of some constricting mould and allow intense experience or change. The experiences produced are of varying intensity. At one level they may simply be recreational, as teaching adjuncts, as means for improving industrial efficiency or for training political action groups. Or they may precede religious experience and mystical revelations of great intensity, with no ultimate religious aim, this is usually a secularization of the transcendental experience. Virtually all point to a discovery of the individual's maximum potential or real self.

Common to all techniques is the use of feedback, of group interaction, as events within the group and the effects of taking part are described, analyzed and evaluated by those involved. Although regular meetings may be held, it is more usual for the groups to take several days away from habitual surroundings and thus make the experience more intensive. Also common to such groups is the fact that participants do not use the group as medical treatment but to enhance their experience or self-expression. In fact, use of such groups for medical therapy may have an unfortunate letdown effect after the group session is over and the caring, supportive environment withdrawn. Another limitation is that the aim may become egoistic with the emphasis on the individual and not on humanity as a whole.