Viktor Frankl's approach to existential therapy is known as what?

Viktor Frankl's approach to existential therapy is known as logotherapy. This therapeutic method emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in one's life, which is central to human existence according to Frankl. He believed that the pursuit of meaning is a primary motivational force in individuals, and that understanding this deeply personal quest is crucial in helping individuals navigate their suffering and find purpose.

Logotherapy is distinct from other therapeutic approaches as it focuses specifically on addressing existential questions and challenges, rather than emphasizing unconscious motives or behavior patterns, which are the central themes in psychoanalysis. Unlike humanistic therapy, which may prioritize self-actualization or personal growth, logotherapy centers on the individual's capacity to find meaning through their experiences, including suffering. Existential analysis, while related, refers more broadly to the exploration of existential themes and does not capture the specific focus that logotherapy has on meaning-making. This connection to meaning, especially as illustrated through Frankl's own experiences as a Holocaust survivor, underscores why logotherapy is a unique and profound approach in the realm of existential therapy.

Overall, logotherapy's emphasis on meaning in life aligns closely with Frankl's perspectives and teachings, making it the correct term to describe his approach.