In this 32nd episode, Dr. Knabb tackles the topic of decentering, or being able to observe inner thoughts and feelings from a safe distance. First, the concept of decentering in secular clinical psychology is explored, followed by a review of a similar practice in Christianity, watchfulness. To conclude, Dr. Knabb guides listeners through a short practice, the Jesus Prayer, to cultivate watchfulness and attempt to decenter from difficult, unpleasant thoughts and feelings.
References
APA Dictionary of Psychology. (n.d.). Decentering. https://dictionary.apa.org/decentering
Barclay, W. (1974). New testament words. Presbyterian Publishing Corporation.
Bernstein, A., Hadash, Y., Lichtash, Y., Tanay, G., Shepherd, K., & Fresco, D. (2015). Decentering and related constructs: A critical review and metacognitive processes model. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 10, 599-617.
Fresco, D., Moore, M., van Dulmen, M., Segal, Z., Ma, S., Teasdale, J., & Williams, J. (2007). Initial psychometric properties of the Experiences Questionnaire: Validation of a self-report measure of decentering. Behavior Therapy, 38, 234-246.
Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.
Segal, Z., Williams, M., & Teasdale, J. (2012). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for depression (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
St. Nikodimos. (Ed.). (1979). The philokalia: The complete text. Faber and Faber.
Upper Room Dictionary of Christian Spiritual Formation. (2003). Vigilance. Upper Room Books.
Ward, B. (1975). The sayings of the desert fathers. Liturgical Press.
Ware, K. (2017). The Jesus prayer. Catholic Truth Society.