On the Psychology of "Mattering" in Group Psychotherapy: A Modern Psychoanalytic Perspective

Interpersonal "mattering" refers to being visible, important, and needed by others, whereas "anti-mattering" describes feeling invisible, insignificant, and not needed. While mattering is a well-known concept in empirical psychology, it has received little attention in the group psychotherapy literature. By applying theory and techniques to case examples, this paper explores how group psychotherapy can increase one's sense of mattering using modern psychoanalytic principles. Mattering is also discussed as a critical element of group cohesion that can improve the group therapy process. By addressing developmental and societal deficits in mattering, group psychotherapy can improve each member's enduring sense of mattering to self and others, leading to positive mental health and social adjustment outcomes.