The Relevance of Culture and Relationship Dynamics for Closing Escape Hatches in Therapy

Abstract

This article considers the potential dangers of routinely closing escape hatches in therapy as recommended by Boyd and Cowles-Boyd (1980). Particular attention is paid to clients who express the wish to commit suicide, although the escape hatches of harming self, others, or going crazy are also discussed. The relationship of script to escape hatches is explored along with cultural views of death and dying. It is the author's contention that therapists often fail to take into account a client's cultural background and environment, and that early escape hatch closure can prevent exploration of views on death and dying, leaving the client feeling misunderstood. The concept of hope is viewed as a necessary prerequisite to closing escape hatches and achieving autonomy, and it is suggested that the way to foster hope is by offering clients their developmentally needed relationship.

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Anita Mountain

Anita Mountain, M.Sc. (TA), CYCW, is a Certified Transactional Analyst (clinical and organizational) and a Provisional Teaching and Supervising Transactional Analyst (organizational). She is also a UKCP-registered psychotherapist with a private psychotherapy practice and her own training and development consultancy. She is the consultant to a home for young people within the public sector.