What is catharsis? This word can sometimes be heard on TV or found in literature. However, not everyone knows the true meaning of this term. In this article, we will tell you what catharsis is and how it can manifest itself.
What does catharsis mean
Translated from the ancient Greek, the word "catharsis" literally means "elevation, purification or recovery."
Catharsis is the process of releasing emotions, resolving internal conflicts and moral elevation, which arises in the process of self-expression or empathy in the perception of works of art.
In simple terms, catharsis is the highest emotional pleasure that can manifest itself in many ways. It should be noted that the ancient Greeks used this concept in different areas:
- Catharsis in philosophy. The famous Aristotle used this term to refer to the process of liberation from negative emotions based on fear and compassion.
- Catharsis in medicine. The Greeks used this word to free the body from a painful illness.
- Catharsis in religion is characterized by the cleansing of the soul from unrighteousness and suffering.
An interesting fact is that there are over 1500 interpretations of catharsis in philosophy.
Catharsis in psychology
Psychotherapists use catharsis to help the patient reproduce the disturbing images that caused his psychological problem. Thanks to this, the doctor can help the patient get rid of negative emotions or phobias.
The term "catharsis" was introduced into psychology by Sigmund Freud, the author of psychoanalysis. He argued that motives that are not recognized by a person give rise to various emotions that negatively affect the human psyche.
Adherents of psychoanalysis believe that it is possible to get rid of mental anxiety only through the experience of catharsis. It should be noted that there are 2 types of catharsis - everyday and high.
Everyday catharsis is expressed in emotional release from rage, resentment, sobbing, etc. For example, if a person starts banging his pillow with his fists, imagining the offender in his mind, he will soon be able to feel relief and even forgive the person who offended him.
High catharsis is spiritual cleansing through art. Experiencing together with the heroes of a book, a play or a film, an individual can get rid of negativity through compassion.
