Conceptual analysis of validation therapy

The present article examines the conceptual aspects of Validation Therapy. Validation Therapy is a humanistic approach used to give disoriented old-old people, eighty years and older, an opportunity to resolve their life's unfinished conflicts by encouraging them to express their feelings. This approach emphasizes the relationship between the old-old person and the caregiver by focusing on empathy, acceptance, and acknowledgment. Four stages of disorientation, ranging from mild to severe, are described on the basis of emotional and physical characteristics. The theoretical assumptions and underlying principals of Validation Therapy are discussed. Finally, research studies are outlined to evaluate the effectiveness of Validation Therapy. It is concluded that although Validation Therapy is a well-formulated, alternative approach to helping disoriented individuals, further research is needed to determine its validity.