Published: October 2024
Keywords:
Pietro Barbetta, Teaching, Learning, Processes, Systemic, Tragedy, Antigone, Sophocles, Patriarchy, Apoikiokratia, Culture, Beliefs, Credence, Religion, Tradition, Mental Health, Community Resources, Urgenza Psychologica.
Pietro Barbetta
Past director of the Milan Center of Family Therapy, current director of the International School of Systemic Therapy in Transcultural Contexts (ISST).
He has published, among others, Locura y Creacion (2016, Gedisa) with U. Telfener, Complessità e psicoterapia (2019, Raffaello Cortina), and with M. E. Cavagnis, I. B. Krause and U. Telfener, Ethical and Aesthetic Exploration of Systemic Practices (2022 Routledge),
pietro.barbetta@unibg.it
Abstract
Continuing the discussion of teaching/learning processes, Pietro Barbetta discusses Antigone, a pivotal figure in Western culture who first appears in Sophocles's tragedies, particularly in the plays "Oedipus at Colonus" and "Antigone." Barbetta emphasizes Antigone's role as a symbol of the transition to a patriarchal society, which he argues was characterized by the sacrifice of women. He connects Antigone's narrative with the historical shift from matriarchal to patriarchal structures, suggesting that her story encapsulates the memory and pain of this social transformation.
Barbetta then draws parallels between Greek Tragedy and systemic therapy, arguing that both serve as a means of dealing with and processing pain. He refers to Aristotle's concept of Tragedy as therapeutic, emphasizing its capacity for catharsis. Contrary to the belief that Tragedy is merely pessimistic, Barbetta argues that Tragedy is ironic and reflective, allowing individuals to deal meaningfully with their feelings and social issues.
He expands on the great importance of cultural context in therapeutic practices by presenting a case involving a young man, his family history, and its organization.
Cultural beliefs and historical narratives influence individual, family, and group behaviour and treatment. Barbetta believes therapists must recognize and connect with their clients' cultural backgrounds to provide adequate support.
Deeply held beliefs, even those that individuals may not consciously recognize, affect mental health. An example from Barbetta's interactions with his students from diverse backgrounds shows how culture shapes perceptions of mental health and treatment. This highlights the need for therapists to understand their clients' cultural context and their own to facilitate therapy processes.
Barbetta is proud to be a systemic therapist and advocates the importance of maintaining the integrity of systemic approaches amidst contemporary trends. He criticizes the tendency to abandon established terms and concepts in favour of new market-driven ideas. He emphasizes the need for therapists to remain committed to their traditions - while adapting them to the complexities of modern society.
The video concludes with the community-based social awareness and mental health prevention and therapy initiatives of URGENZA PSYCHOLOGICA in Milan, where Barbetta currently works. He describes a model that integrates psychological support with community resources, emphasizing accessibility and the importance of creating safe spaces for people seeking help. This approach reflects a commitment to addressing mental health in the broader context of social issues, strengthening the intersection of therapy and community.
