The Satir Journal, Volume 1 No. 2
ISSN - (print) 1718-2050
ISSN – (online) 1718-2069

An Analysis of Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy in the Korean Worldview

Young Ae Kim, Ph.D.
Korea Satir Institute,
Director

ABSTRACT

Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST) has been enthusiastically welcomed in Korea since the training program was first introduced approximately five years ago and adopted into the graduate program of social welfare. The enthusiasm arises from the model's clarity, inclusiveness, integration and its transformational power. This study will compare the basic worldview of Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy with the traditional Korean worldview, with a focus on similarities in approaches to mental health.

Koreans’ archaic worldview is called “Han,” which means holistic, systemic, complementary, and spiritually centered. In this view, all existence is spiritually interconnected, each is of equal value and there is no concept of dualism. Furthermore, the world is in a constant process of change. However, Korea’s archaic worldview became overshadowed by Confucianism, with its base in patriarchy and its tendency to have people grasp for power over others. As a result, the life of Koreans has become contrary to its former worldview, and this has created deep pain, particularly for those who are located lower in the hierarchy. Overemphasis on this patriarchic worldview seems to contribute to dysfunctional symptoms such as dependency, being outside-focused, victimizing oneself, a shame-based false self, family-based self-centeredness, etc.

Virginia Satir strongly disagreed with the Western dualistic worldview and was adamant in her stance that people have equal value. Satir always regarded every person as an authentic being, equipped with resources to fully realize themselves and sharing the same life force. This study prepares the discussion of the application and benefits of Satir’s therapy model in Korea by first comparing it with the Korean “Han” worldview and its traditional healing methodology.

Chinese version of abstract (free)

Korean version of abstract (free)

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