Towards a transpersonal psychology of Daoism

Daoism (Taoism) is a collection of Chinese philosophical beliefs and psychospiritual practices with a history of thousands of years, and a living community that stretches throughout East Asia. I will argue that Daoism and its corresponding texts such as those included in the Daozang provide a wealth of material regarding trans-egoic experiences (e.g., unitive absorption in the Dao), that may enhance Western psychologists’ understanding of transpersonal phenomena. Curiously, however, despite the obvious points of intersection between Daoism and transpersonal psychology (e.g., a mutual interest in phenomena typically referred to as altered states of consciousness), to date transpersonal psychologists have neglected to investigate Daoism. Indeed, the majority of published research concerning the relationships between Daoism and Western psychology has been undertaken from within the Jungian analytic and humanistic psychological movements. After reviewing this literature, I will formulate various proposals for future empirical studies that may interest transpersonal psychologists.

Obsessive compulsive disorder : integration of cognitive-behaviour therapy and clinical psychology care into the primary care context

In primary care, evidence-based psychological treatments for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), have not been readily available. We aimed to develop models of care for OCD that account for barriers to access and can be integrated into general practice settings. Multiple methodologies and sources were utilised, including literature reviews, a reference group, focus groups, interviews and questionnaire responses from consumers, psychologists and/or GPs. It was found that there were similarities and some differences among stakeholders in attitudes and knowledge about OCD, and views about treatment and assessment in primary care. Three models of care for patients with OCD were developed and integrated into a treatment program operating through a division of general practice. Participating GPs preferred referral to a specialist clinic, irrespective of participation in an educational program about OCD. Based on these findings, it is suggested that effective integration of specialist CBT treatments for OCD into primary care is possible if the needs and views of all stakeholders are accounted for.

Competing ethical paradigms in forensic psychiatry and forensic psychology: commentary for a special section of legal and criminological psychology

In her paper Gwen Adshead (2013) identifies the principle of respect for justice as the foundation for ethical practice in forensic psychiatry. This commentary discusses how forensic psychologists have approached a key aspect of the justice principle, the ethical imperative to promote the welfare of the individual client. The approaches of the psychiatric and psychological professions are compared and the role of psychologists as allied health professionals working in the forensic setting considered.

The potential utility of Daoist theory and practice in psychology

This thesis attempted to demonstrate the potential for adaptation from the Chinese philosophical tradition of Daoism into modern psychology. The candidate was able to succesfully demonstrate a link between Daoist thinking style and reduced stress levels, especially in Chinese individuals.