• 26th International Congress on PCP Belgrade 2025, ARTICLES, Special Section

The Struggle for Meaning in the Face of Bodily Deterioration: Personal Construct Theory in Practice

Zindović, A.

DOI:
10.69995/RAYV5174

Keywords:
Personal Construct Psychology, Meaning-making, Bodily deterioration.

Abstract:
Serious illness or physical injury often marks a profound turning point in a person’s life, disrupting the very foundations of identity and one’s overall life perspective. Although clients struggling with such experiences frequently seek therapeutic support, these encounters challenge not only the therapist’s theoretical knowledge but also their emotional preparedness. This paper explores the psychological impact of bodily disruption through the lens of Personal Construct Theory (PCT), emphasising the crucial role of the therapeutic relationship in providing a safe space for clients to grieve and gradually form new pathways of meaning. The paper aims to honour the complexity of this work, offering a potential path that the therapist can follow when both parties are confronted with the unknown.