Dialogic action therapy: an integrative approach to effective living

Dialogic action therapy (DAT) integrates two cardinal constructs, dialogics and action, into a coherent framework for therapeutic intervention. DAT makes explicit its assumptions about human nature. It gives due recognition to the whole range of capabilities and potentialities unique to humans. In particular, metacognitive capabilities such as self-reflective thought play a vital role in the therapeutic process. DAT is founded on the thesis that selfhood is dialogic in nature. The dialogic self engages in both internal and external dialogues, in the process of which it may transform itself. Hence, its potentiality for self-transformation, even self-creation, is immense. The defining characteristics of action are intentionality, self-consciousness and self-knowledge. Grounded in dialectics, DAT promotes the unity of thought and action, as well as enhancing effective problem solving and productive living.