Buddhist Psychology: Compulsion, Control and Addiction
The cycles of behaviour and preoccupation which we explored in the last session, described in teachings such as The Twelve Links of Dependent Origination and The Skandhas, show how we tend to repeat particular patterns of response when faced with difficult situations. This repetition, driven by underlying anxieties and fears, tends to become increasingly established at times of stress so that the process can become driven and compulsive. In this workshop we will look at the implications of these teachings in particular mental health issues, particularly when they reach this level of compulsiveness. We will explore ways in which the common patterns of clinging and attachment which start as a means by which the mind tries to find an area of control in uncontrollable situations come to dominate attention and narrow engagement still further. As such processes become powerful drivers they can take on an addictive quality, leading us into mind states that are fixed on particular interests, so an understanding of these more pronounced states of preoccupation can help us to understand and work with the psychology of addictive processes in all their forms.
Part of the Buddhist Psychology series. Sessions can be booked standalone so don't worry if you missed previous sessions.
About Caroline Brazier: Author of seven books on Buddhism, psychotherapy and ecotherapy and many chapters, papers and articles. Caroline has taught Buddhist psychology, ecotherapy and psychotherapy for more than thirty years, latterly through the Tariki training programmes. Alongside this, she has worked as a therapist and supervisor; work which continues now that she is semi-retired. She has also worked in a number of community settings over the years including community education, women's health projects, community arts and running residential retreats. A Buddhist for many years with experience in a number of traditions, Caroline took Tokudo ordination in the Jodo Shinshu school in 2018. She is also a mother and grandmother and enjoys plenty of family time.
