A Systems Approach in Psychotherapy in the Context of Developing Emotional Intelligence through the Method of “Reality Strategy”: A New Look at Psychological Integrity
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: In the context of postmodern fragmentation and the crisis of “grand narratives”, the problem of gaining and maintaining psychological integrity of the individual acquires existential urgency. This article presents a funda-mental theoretical and empirical substantiation of the innovative integrative method “Reality Strategy”, de-signed to reconsolidate personal integrity through the targeted development of emotional intelligence (EI) as a meta-competence. The method is founded on the paradigm of a systemic approach, wherein the psyche is viewed as a complex, dynamic, self-organizing system striving for homeostasis. The central task of the study is to demonstrate the unique therapeutic synthesis underlying the “Reality Strategy”, which combines concepts from humanistic psychology, third-wave cognitive-behavioral therapy, and applied neurophysiology. Particular attention is paid to the scientific novelty of the method, which consists in: 1) operationalization of the neuro-physiological model of the reticular activating system (RAS) as a practical cybernetic tool for conscious recon-figuration of the client’s perceptual filters; 2) development of a multi-level concept of “Acceptance” (phenome-nological, cognitive, somatic, existential); 3) formulation of the concept of psychological trauma as a post fac-tum cognitive-existential choice of vulnerability. Also, for the first time, the definition of psychological integrity is introduced as a dynamic state of coherence between the cognitive, emotional and behavioral aspects of the personality, supported by a consciously calibrated RAS. A detailed analysis of the author’s model of working with the “Persona” as a socially constructed facade and deconstruction of irrational introjects is carried out. The article presents the results of a multi-stage pilot study (N = 50) demonstrating a statistically significant (p < 0.01) improvement in EI indices (MSCEIT-adapted), reductions in anxiety and depression levels (HADS), as well as a significant increase in self-esteem (Rosenberg scale) and subjective quality of life. A statistical analysis using the Student’s t-test for dependent samples was conducted to confirm the reliability of the observed changes. The analysis of clinical cases illustrates the practical implementation and effectiveness of the method. The arti-cle argues that the “Reality Strategy” is a valid and effective tool for relatively short-term therapy, catalyzing deep personal transformation and the formation of a mature, authentic, and self-determined life position.
Author: Anna A. Aktaeva
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414558915
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