From the Deficit to Expert Paradigm
the Specificity and Coherence of Postulates
Abstract
Objective of the study: This article seeks to illuminate the transformative changes in therapeutic techniques and theoretical advancements that have arisen from a pivotal shift in psychological perspective. We are moving away from a deficit-based paradigm that emphasizes symptom identification and elimination toward a more empowering approach that celebrates human potential, harnesses individual strengths, fosters personal agency, and nurtures overall well-being. Method: The research method used is a scoping literature review aimed at exploring the scope, impact, and substance of research activities concerning the evolution of two main paradigms: the deficit paradigm, encompassing psychoanalysis, dynamic, behavioral, and cognitive psychology, and the expert paradigm, encompassing humanistic psychology, positive psychology, and mindfulness psychology. Results: The observed consistency between the postulates of the deficit and expert paradigms suggests the need to refine the assumptions of both perspectives. In the first case, it is necessary to base one’s postulates on the research that utilizes advanced neuroimaging tools and sophisticated analytical strategies. In the second case, it is necessary to transition from nomographic to idiographic methods. Conclusions: The knowledge gained from this research review can provide psychologists with a deeper understanding of the therapeutic techniques they offer and use. Furthermore, this work can provide a source of hypotheses based on the observed advances in research tools and analytical strategies.
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