A Counseling Model for Self-Relation Coordination for Chinese Clients With Interpersonal Conflicts

Abstract

This article proposes a self-relation coordination counseling model for contemporary Taiwanese clients. The model is based on an analysis of the interpersonal disturbances of people suffering from conflict resulting from the coexistence of a Confucian cultural heritage and Western values. The goal of the proposed model is to help clients experiencing conflict between personal interests and social harmony to develop a balanced psychosocial homeostasis by coordinating the self and related others. Major counseling tasks and methods are delineated and discussed.

Indigenous Crisis Counseling in Taiwan: An Exploratory Qualitative Case Study of an Expert Therapist

“…These characteristics are in line with the concepts of 'self-relation coordination' (Chen 2009) and 'self cultivation' (Hwang and Chang 2009) within Chinese social and behavioral norms. These beliefs are likely to predispose Chinese and Taiwanese individuals to negotiate one's personal goals, obligations and experiences (e.g., grief emotions) in view of the needs and perceptions of important others in social situations, such as the counselor.…”

“…Similarly, Atkinson et al (1993) recommended that multiculturally competent clinicians should be prepared to assume the roles of adviser, consultant, change agent, advocate, counselor, psychotherapist and facilitator of indigenous healing methods in working with diverse clients. As revealed in the current study, such a recommendation holds true for counselors working with Taiwanese clients (Chen 2009). …”

“…The significance of interpersonal ties among Taiwanese is well captured by the Chinese concept of 'kwuen sei' (i.e., 'relationship' or 'connection')-a key notion that pervades Chinese social interactions and worldviews (Chen 2009;Kuo 2004). Under a theme related to 'kwuen sei', 'Primacy of Client-counselor Rapport and Relationship', Dr. L identified the characteristics of 'authority' and 'relationship' as two essential attributes that mark an ideal 'benevolent healer' in the eyes of Taiwanese clients.…”

“…Of particular interest in the recent counseling literature is the emerging and growing knowledge base on cultural practices of counseling among Chinese in Asian countries (e.g., Chen 2009;Hwang 2009;Hwang and Chang 2009;Leung and Chen 2009;Kwan 2009;So 2005). This corpus of research has begun to identify unique indigenous cultural characteristics as well as challenges associated with helping and counseling relationships in the Chinese Confucian context.…”

Coping Styles and Psychological Distress among Hong Kong University Students: Validation of the Collectivist Coping Style Inventory

“…This supports the finding of previous studies such as that of that relational factors, including interpersonal harmony and filial piety, affect the selection of coping strategies. Hence, in counseling Chinese people, there is a need to employ multiple strategies to deal with one's stress, taking into account different parties involved (Chen 2009). …”