Pro-being Pride

The article "Pro-being Pride: Predation, Possibility and A Third Way" by Ken Benau discusses the concepts of shame and pride within the context of psychotherapy for those who have experienced relational trauma. Benau contrasts shame, which often stems from trauma and leads individuals to feel fundamentally flawed, with a concept he calls "pro-being pride." This type of pride is described as a life-affirming state of being that transcends mere survival and is essential for both individual healing and collective well-being. The article explores how this form of pride can help shift humanity from a state of "predation," characterized by destructive behaviors and self-sabotage, towards "possibility," a state where new, creative ways of being can emerge. Benau advocates for the integration of pro-being pride in therapeutic practices to foster healing and transformation, not just for individuals but for society as a whole.

  • Understand the impact of relational trauma on the development of shame and its implications in psychotherapy.

  • Explore the concept of "pro-being pride" as a therapeutic tool for fostering individual and collective well-being.

  • Analyze the potential of integrating pro-being pride in therapeutic practices to transition from destructive patterns (predation) to creative, life-affirming possibilities.

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