©Routledge/Taylor & Francis 2014
Sample Essay Question
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Chapter 2: Humanistic Approach and Person-Centred Therapy
Answer the following question by writing a full essay. Ensure that you refer to research
evidence, psychological theory and real-world examples in your essay. After you have
written your answer, turn the page to see a sample essay plan for this question.
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Person-centred therapists argue that effective therapeutic change depends on the relationship
rather than any specific techniques. Evaluate the importance of the therapeutic relationship in
the absence of techniques.
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Chapter 2: Humanistic Approach and Person-Centred Therapy
See below for a sample answer to the previous question.
_______________________________________________________________________
Person-centred therapists argue that effective therapeutic change depends on the relationship
rather than any specific techniques. Evaluate the importance of the therapeutic relationship in
the absence of techniques.
Essay Plan
Introduction
o Thesis Statement
o Effective therapy is not dependent upon the utilisation
of techniques, but rather it is based on the relationship
between the therapist and client.
o Define terms
o Define therapeutic change
o Describe techniques vs relationship
o Restate question
o This essay will evaluate the importance of the
therapeutic relationship in person-centred therapy.
Main Body
o Rogers’ description of the client-therapist relationship
o Brief overview of relational depth
o Research evidence for the importance of rapport
o Research evidence for the importance of core conditions
o Research evidence for the importance of techniques (CBT)
o Outline the equivalence paradox (Dodo verdict)
Conclusion
o Restate question
o This essay has evaluated the importance of the
therapeutic relationship in person-centred therapy.
o Conclude
In conclusion, evidence suggests that effective therapy
is not dependent upon techniques, but rather it is based
on the relationship between the therapist and client.
This supports the claims proposed by Rogers that the
relationship is both necessary and sufficient for
constructive personality change.