The problem that is research

Abstract

In this paper the author considers the newly published book Practitioner‐based Research: Power, Discourse and Transformation in the context of the current research agenda in the psychological therapies. He questions the dominant research paradigm with its emphasis on quantitative and/or reductionist methodologies. He postulates that a different approach is needed to understand human suffering and mental health. He contextualizes psychological therapy in a social context and proposes that it is a political act where its focus is on empowerment and liberation.