A Phenomenology of Recognition in Psychosocial Interventions for Psychosis
Philosophy, Psychiatry, & Psychology January 1, 2026 Lukas Iwer-Docter
Recognition, a concept from political philosophy, is applied to mental health care for psychosis. The paper argues that psychosocial interventions should embody a normative stance that acknowledges patients' subjective experiences and fosters mutual, relational recognition between clinician and patient. Drawing on the work of Honneth and Benjamin, recognition is described as an attitude and reciprocal relationship involving intercorporeal and verbal aspects that build trust. A phenomenological understanding of psychosis highlights alterations in self, world, and other. The analysis shows that such a recognizing stance has therapeutic and social potential, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in these interventions.