Use of Meaningless and Novel Proverbs as a Projective Technique.

摘要

The traditional uses of proverbs in the clinical situation were reviewed, with particular emphasis upon qualitative analysis of interpretations. Two related projective techniques were introduced and illustrated. Responses to Meaningless Proverbs were evaluated in terms of: (1) Patient's affect and manner in stating, 'I don't know,' or (2) Symbolism, action potential and basic attitudes revealed in attempts to develop a feasible interpretation. Preliminary results with one meaningless proverb suggested a relationship between clinical diagnosis and the type of response presented. A second technique was introduced in which the subject was asked to create some Novel Proverbs. This approach was analyzed for the chosen content, implied attitudes and actions, and sequential thinking. (Author)