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Storytelling as therapy: implications for medicine
1Institute of Transpersonal Psychology, Palo Alto, Calif., USA.
Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Storytelling, rooted in ancient wisdom and behavioral medicine, offers a novel approach to enhance medical practice. This method integrates relaxation, imagery, and lifestyle changes for improved patient well-being.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Medicine
- Health Psychology
- Medical Humanities
Background:
- Storytelling is a foundational human practice for knowledge transmission.
- Historical use of narratives includes imparting health wisdom.
- Behavioral medicine principles underpin the therapeutic potential of storytelling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the integration of storytelling into contemporary medical practice.
- To examine storytelling as a tool for health education and behavior change.
- To outline practical considerations for implementing storytelling in healthcare.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical and behavioral medicine literature on storytelling.
- Conceptual framework for applying storytelling in clinical settings.
- Discussion of practical techniques: relaxation, imagery, lifestyle change.
Main Results:
- Storytelling can serve as an effective behavioral medicine intervention.
- Practical implementation requires focus on specific techniques.
- Narrative approaches can support patient engagement and adherence.
Conclusions:
- Storytelling offers a valuable, evidence-based modality for medical practice.
- Integrating narrative techniques can enhance patient-centered care.
- Further research can validate the efficacy of storytelling interventions.