A structured inquiry into Frankl's three sources of meaning: creative values (what I create), experiential values (what I receive from the world), attitudinal values (how I relate to unavoidable suffering). The aim: to help the client uncover meaning where they did not see it, through a living dialogue and not a questionnaire.
Step-by-step guide
- Explain the three sources of meaning in plain language, without a lecture.
- Explore creative values: "Is there something you create / do / contribute to the world?"
- Explore experiential values: "Is there someone or something you love? What moves you?"
- Explore attitudinal values (especially in unavoidable suffering): "What stance do you take in the face of this?"
- Help the client formulate their own answer — without imposition.
When to use
- Existential vacuum, a sense of meaninglessness
- Depression of an existential character
- Midlife crisis, retirement
- Work with severe illness and loss
Key phrases
If you think about what you create or do in your life — what comes to mind?
Follow-up questions
Is there someone you live for? Who needs you?
With everything that is happening — how do you want to carry this?
Alternative phrasings
What in your life has meaning — not things, but something deeper?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not turn this into a questionnaire — it is a living dialogue.
- ⚠️ The three pathways do not all work at once: sometimes only one is open.
- ⚠️ The therapist does not decide which pathway is "more correct" for this client.
Source: Frankl, 1946/1985; Frankl, 1967
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.