The Laingian Approach

The Laingian Approach, developed by psychiatrist R.D. Laing, emphasizes understanding mental health issues as meaningful responses to life's difficulties rather than just symptoms to be corrected. It views experiences like psychosis or schizophrenia as part of a person's attempt to make sense of their world, often influenced by their relationships and societal context. The approach encourages empathetic listening and respects individual perspectives, advocating for compassionate treatment that considers personal experiences rather than solely focusing on diagnosis or medication. It aims to foster understanding and integration, recognizing that what might seem like "madness" can hold deeper meaning and insight.