Naren visits a therapist and confides his wrongdoings. He is shocked to see that the therapist conveys by his words and behaviours that he is not judging the client and will continue to show the same positive feelings towards the client even if the client is rude or confides all the ‘wrong’ things that he may have done or thought about.
What is the appropriate term for this kind of therapist’s behaviour?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Unconditional positive regard
Option (1) Empathy — Incorrect. Empathy is present when one can understand the plight of another person and feel like that person, putting oneself in the other’s shoes. The therapist does have empathy for the client, but the question describes something else: acceptance that does not change whatever the client reveals.
Option (2) Friendship — Incorrect. The therapeutic relationship is a contractual partnership aimed at helping the client; it is neither a passing acquaintance nor a permanent and lasting relationship such as friendship.
Option (3) Alliance — Incorrect. The therapeutic alliance is the name of the special relationship between client and therapist as a whole. The question asks about one quality the therapist shows within it.
Option (4) Unconditional positive regard — Correct. The therapist conveys by words and behaviour that s/he is not judging the client and will continue to show the same positive feelings even if the client is rude or confides all the ‘wrong’ things. This is the unconditional positive regard which the therapist has for the client.
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 02-06-2023 (Slot 1) and 23-06-2023 (Slot 3).
NCERT (2025-26): “Therapeutic Relationship The special relationship between the client and the therapist is known as the therapeutic relationship or alliance.…” “…The therapist encourages this by being accepting, empathic, genuine and warm to the client. The therapist conveys by her/his words and behaviours that s/he is not judging the client and will continue to show the same positive feelings towards the client even if the client is rude or confides all the ‘wrong’ things that s/he may have done or thought about. This is the unconditional positive regard which the therapist has for the client. The therapist has empathy for the client.…” |