Insights from Western and Eastern Approaches

In therapeutic settings, the use of the question “Why?” is often approached with caution. Western psychologists frequently avoid directly asking “Why?” or answering it due to concerns that it might make clients feel accused or judged, potentially leading to defensiveness or resistance. Research indicates that such questions can indeed provoke anxiety and defensiveness, potentially disrupting the therapeutic alliance and hindering progress (1).

Instead, therapists often use alternative methods to explore the underlying reasons behind clients’ behaviors and emotions. Techniques such as open-ended questions, reflective listening, and exploring clients’ narratives can be more effective in eliciting meaningful responses without causing defensiveness (2, 3). Closed questions like “Why?” can sometimes stall the therapeutic process by making clients and therapists focus on immediate justifications rather than deeper exploration.

However, once a strong therapeutic alliance is established, direct questions, including “Why?” can sometimes be beneficial. They can help clarify specific issues and expedite the understanding of clients’ underlying motivations (4). This approach must be balanced with sensitivity to avoid re-triggering defensiveness.

In contrast, Eastern therapeutic approaches, such as those found in Nyaya philosophy, often embrace questions like “Why?” as a means to foster self-inquiry and deeper understanding. Nyaya emphasizes the pursuit of correct knowledge to alleviate suffering, advocating for questioning as a tool to gain insight into the causes of one’s problems and achieve mental clarity (5, 6). This method aligns with the concept of self-reflection in Eastern practices, where introspection is used to uncover and address the root causes of distress.

The Bhagavad Gita, a seminal text in Eastern philosophy, exemplifies this approach. In the context of the Kurukshetra battlefield, Arjuna’s direct questioning of Krishna about the righteousness of fighting provides a profound example of how questioning can facilitate deep personal insight and resolve complex dilemmas (7). Krishna’s responses helped Arjuna navigate his moral confusion and align his actions with higher principles, demonstrating the value of asking ‘Why?’ in a context where clarity and purpose are sought.

In summary, while the direct use of “Why?” can be contentious in Western therapeutic practices due to its potential to evoke defensiveness, it is a valued tool in Eastern approaches for its role in facilitating self-exploration and understanding. Integrating this approach into therapy requires careful consideration of the client’s readiness and the therapeutic relationship.

References:

1. Keelan, P. (n.d.). When and how to ask why in counselling. Retrieved from Dr. Patrick Keelan
2. Teyber, E., & Teyber, F. H. (2017). Interpersonal Process in Therapy: An Integrative Model (7th ed.). Cengage Learning.
3. Devito, J. A. (2016). The Interpersonal Communication Book (12th ed.). Pearson.
4. Egan, G. (2019). The Skilled Helper (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
5. Mishra, B. (2014). Nyaya Philosophy: The Art of Self-Understanding. Routledge.
6. Panda, M. (2015). Philosophy and Practice in Eastern Therapy. Springer.
7. Pandurangi, A. K., Shenoy, S., & Keshavan, M. S. (2013). Psychotherapy in the Bhagavad Gita. American Journal of Psychiatry. Retrieved from AJP Psychiatry