The client deliberately wishes for, or tries to bring on, precisely what they fear. The technique breaks the vicious circle of anticipatory anxiety: the client begins to laugh at their own fear, which is incompatible with anxiety. Humor and self-distancing are used — they turn the symptom from a threat into an object of self-irony.
Step-by-step guide
- Identify the symptom and the mechanism of anticipatory anxiety — what exactly the client fears will happen.
- Formulate a paradoxical "order" to oneself: deliberately wish for the worst scenario, with humor and exaggeration.
- The client rehearses the paradoxical phrase aloud; the therapist helps add grotesque.
- Apply the technique every time anticipatory anxiety arises.
- Discuss the change in the relationship to the symptom — from threat to an object of self-directed humor.
When to use
- Phobias, panic disorder, anticipatory anxiety
- Insomnia (fear of not falling asleep)
- Sexual dysfunctions driven by hyper-intention
- Stammering, social anxiety
Key phrases
Next time, try to want this to happen — and as strongly as possible.
Follow-up questions
Let's say to your fear: "Great, one more time — I'll bring it on deliberately!"
Can you find anything funny in this? How would you describe it with humor?
Alternative phrasings
What if you deliberately tried to feel everything you are afraid of — right now?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not use in acute suicidal states.
- ⚠️ Do not use in severe depression without the resource of self-distancing.
- ⚠️ Humor must be gentle self-irony, not the therapist mocking the client.
- ⚠️ Requires an explanation of the logic before application.
Source: Frankl, 1960; Frankl, 1985
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.