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Lantz (1987) relies on the Socratic dialogue as one ofhis direct approaches for help­
ing families to discovermeaning. Using the Socratic method ofquestions, the helper
enables family membersto become aware oftheir spiritual dimension and to use this
awareness for solvingfamilyproblems (see 1987:23-24). Accordingto him this
dialogue is one ofthe direct approaches to help families to discover meaning. Using
the Socraticmethod ofquestions,the therapist enables familymembers to become
aware of their spiritualdimension and to use this awareness for solvingtheir family
problems(1987:23-24).
In evaluating this techniqueit is noteworthy that the exchange ofinformation is so­
methingthat can be regard as good. The whole idea ofunderstandingthe patient!
client by correctlyinterpretingbis/her language, and by using the right language, is
also good. To bring change via dialogue, to be open, transparent and interpretive are
allmatters thatare plus points in this technique.
From a psychodynamic point ofview the move to the past (the unconscious) ofa
person in order to explore geting in touch with his/her noetic unconsciousness, is
somethingthat is seen as positive. The deliberate cognitive emphasis is certainly
welcomedincognitive personological circles. The Socratic dialogue emphasises that
a person can transcend hislher circumstances and thathe/she is more than just a
"product" ofhislher environment like the behaviorists use to emphasise.
The recognition and awakeningofthe client's/patient's abilities and/or potentials to
break free from the chains ofsufferingare certainly welcomed by those who move in
humanistic and phenomenological-existential circles. The logotherapeutic emphasis
on the "inner powers" that are availableinside hmnan beings, to those who believe
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