Personal Theory
Working Outline
Jacinth Sutphin
Liberty University
COUN 507
November 23, 2013
I. Introduction:
A comprehensive theoretical approach for any Christian counselor should always keep in mind the integration of psychology, theology, and spirituality. Knowing and understanding each individual’s issues of life requires us to take into account the mind, the body and the soul/spirit. Also taking into consideration the temporal systems, and the supernatural systems which influence a person. McMinn (1996) states, “the best interdisciplinary integration work usually comes from those who have formal or informal preparation in both psychology and theology” (p.9).
II. What is Important for Understanding Human Personality?
A. Personality
Our personality is molded by our life experiences in which we are conditioned. It is important to understand how personalities are developed and how we can assist our clients that are seeking our help. Hawkins (2006) presents a model of human personality through his concentric circles. Our personality takes into account five distinct factors: the core (God is in the center), then the Soul, Body, Temporal Systems, and on the outside Supernatural. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus said “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (New International Version). Our heart is the center of our being and personality.
B. Motivation
Crabb(1977) states that “motivation, is a generalized drive to meet personal needs, is also a normal, necessary part of personality.”As I stated ealier, the heart is the center of our being and personality. Our heart is where we find our motivation and where our passions and emotions are rooted from. Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, New International Version). If we want to live and...