The Christian Psychologist: Mental Health for 21st Century Christ Followers

Episode 6: Avoidance

Episode Summary

In Episode 6, Dr. Knabb discusses the human tendency to avoid, referred to in the secular clinical psychology literature more formally as experiential avoidance. In particular, he explores the definition of experiential avoidance, as well as its costs, research support, and interventions. Then, Dr. Knabb offers a biblical view of the topic, drawing upon the Psalms as a way to help Christians lament to God in the midst of emotional pain. To conclude, he guides listeners through the practice of lamenting to God in an effort to accept inner pain, present it to God, and thank God for his many blessings on this side of heaven.

Episode Notes

References

Brueggemann, W. (1984). The message of the Psalms: A theological commentary. Augsburg Publishing House.

Gamez, W., Chmielewski, M., Kotov, R., Ruggero, C., & Watson, D. (2011). Development of a measure of experiential avoidance: The Multidimensional Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire. Psychological Assessment, 23, 692-713.

Hall, D. (1986). God & human suffering: An exercise in the theology of the cross. Augsburg Publishing House. 

Harris, R. (2019). ACT made simple (2nd ed.). New Harbinger Publications.

Hayes, S. (2005). Get out of your mind and into your life: The new acceptance and commitment therapy. New Harbinger Publications.

Hayes, S., Strosahl, K., & Wilson, K. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change (2nd ed.). The Guilford Press.

Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.

Knabb, J. (2022). Faith-based ACT for Christian clients: An integrative treatment approach (2nd ed.). Routledge.

Wolters, A. (2005). Creation regained: Biblical basics for a reformational worldview (2nd ed.). William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.

Wortley, J. (2012). The book of elders: Sayings of the desert fathers. Cistercian Publications.