The Social Trifecta of Human Misery and Problematical Constructions of the Self: Implication for Formation and Supervision
Abstract
I wish to propose that three broad and pervasive social realities—consumerism, income inequality, and certain aspects of postmodernity—constitute a perfect storm of suffering for the individuals, families, communities and congregations in our care. These social realities are, for most societies touched by the globalization of capitalism, the trifecta of human misery. Though I continue to draw upon the insights of psychology, I can no longer imagine focusing solely upon the intrapsychic and interpersonal lives of the suffering individuals, couples, and families in my counseling office. I face a similar challengeteaching and advising students preparing for ministry or supervising candidates seeking to become pastoral counselors. How can I limit their training and formation to the utilization of psychologies and theologies that are occupied almost exclusively with individuals and their private relationships?
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