Description Long

The method originates from the therapeutic field, where the goal is to demand exactly the opposite of what one seeks to achieve. The aim is to become aware of problematic behaviour in all its dimensions and paradoxes. Through exaggeration or reversal, something is brought to consciousness, and relationships are seen in a new light. By consciously exaggerating or reversing, participants learn to view their own behaviour from the perspective of the opposing side. This leads to new insights, uncovers hidden dynamics, and can humorously relieve the pressure from problematic situations.

Preparation

• Define a clear goal or problem.
• Prepare a list of possible paradoxical tasks related to the problem.

Execution

1. The concept of the paradoxical intervention is explained to the participants.
2. Together, a problem or pattern is defined.
3. A paradoxical action or demand is developed that seemingly contradicts the goal (e.g., "Deliberately make more stress for yourself until it becomes absurd").
4. The participants carry out this action and then reflect together on the results and insights.
5. Finally, there is a discussion on how these new perspectives can be applied to the original problem.

Hints from experience

• Ensure that participants perceive the method as playful and not as criticism.
• Choose paradoxical tasks that are humorous and exaggerated to reduce the pressure.

References

Author: Thomas Duschlbauer. Der Querdenker: Das Toolkit mit 30 ausgewählten Methoden (German); ISBN: 9783907100639

https://www.landsiedel-seminare.de/coaching-welt/wissen/coaching-tools/paradoxe-intervention.html (20.03.2019)