Cite as (APA style): Kirillov, I. (2026). Primary Capacities of Meaning and Ideal. The Global Psychotherapist, 6(1), 114-129 http://doi.org/10.52982/lkj296
Abstract: This article continues a four-part series that refines the list, definitions, and diagnostic criteria of the primary actual capacities proposed by Nossrat Peseschkian, integrating them with contemporary psychodynamic theory and practice. As the fourth installment, it focuses on the capacities of ideal and meaning. It reviews the literature to clarify their conceptual definitions and scientific grounding in motivation, bodily experience, cognition, behavior, and relationships.
Building on this theoretical synthesis, the author proposes clinically oriented diagnostic criteria, sample diagnostic questions, and intervention ideas intended to support more structured assessment, individualized treatment planning, self-help resource development, and future research.
Keywords: Positive Psychotherapy, operationalisation, primary capacities, ideal, pleasure