oy
Knowledge is a marshy bog sometimes.
I know some really respected experts who are quite competent in their fields, who also entertain some fringe theories that have no solid data to back them up.
On one hand, I can understand the skepticism against these theories and am a bit biased towards that end myself. On the other hand, I can also see the usefulness of these theories and can see how they might possibly have a kernel of truth in them. And I know that until more research is done, all theories fell into this category at some time in their histories. I've studied enough science history to know this is so. Many of the principles of science we now accept as fact had to wait many decades until they could be tested to the point of almost universal acceptence.
It all is boiling down to which ideas will I be able to use effectively to help my future clients/patients. As it is, one theory of thought that I've semi-adhered to in the past, I am seeing as more and more flawed as I study more about human behavior. I will concede it has some truth in it, but it's execution is far too flawed for me to use with clear conscious anymore. I have reached the same point all the therapists I've discussed this theory with have - it's more of a play toy than an actual tool when it comes to actually helping people change their lives for better. In fact, I'm starting to see it more as a hindrance to moral growth and maturity. Of course, I do understand how it can act as a very good crutch when life gets confusing. I've used it that way myself. But the potential of growth with this particular tool is very limited.
Because I have met so many worthwhile individuals through this theory, I feel sort of disrespectful to abandon it now. However, even though I have tried to redeem this theory in my mind, it just isn't holding up to the new knowledge I am receiving.
I am going to have to let it go and just look back on it fondly on occasion.
I know some really respected experts who are quite competent in their fields, who also entertain some fringe theories that have no solid data to back them up.
On one hand, I can understand the skepticism against these theories and am a bit biased towards that end myself. On the other hand, I can also see the usefulness of these theories and can see how they might possibly have a kernel of truth in them. And I know that until more research is done, all theories fell into this category at some time in their histories. I've studied enough science history to know this is so. Many of the principles of science we now accept as fact had to wait many decades until they could be tested to the point of almost universal acceptence.
It all is boiling down to which ideas will I be able to use effectively to help my future clients/patients. As it is, one theory of thought that I've semi-adhered to in the past, I am seeing as more and more flawed as I study more about human behavior. I will concede it has some truth in it, but it's execution is far too flawed for me to use with clear conscious anymore. I have reached the same point all the therapists I've discussed this theory with have - it's more of a play toy than an actual tool when it comes to actually helping people change their lives for better. In fact, I'm starting to see it more as a hindrance to moral growth and maturity. Of course, I do understand how it can act as a very good crutch when life gets confusing. I've used it that way myself. But the potential of growth with this particular tool is very limited.
Because I have met so many worthwhile individuals through this theory, I feel sort of disrespectful to abandon it now. However, even though I have tried to redeem this theory in my mind, it just isn't holding up to the new knowledge I am receiving.
I am going to have to let it go and just look back on it fondly on occasion.