Dealing with Shame Using Appreciative Inquiry

Abstract

Although Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is often thought of as a framework used in Industrial/Organisational Psychology it has a much broader application. This chapter will focus on the applied use of AI in dealing with the ‘shame’ and ‘guilt’ experienced by individuals with HIV/AIDS in a sub-Saharan socio-economic context. The four key tenets of AI, namely: Discovery (the best of what is), Dream (what might be), Design (what should be) and Destiny (what will be) lend themselves to a reflexive approach for use in therapeutic settings. The appreciative interview, which is collaborative in nature, uses questions which are formulated so that a positive response is received. This gives clients a chance to discover positive things about themselves and their context (the client is not allowed to dwell on the negative). A second phase of discovery allows the client to reflect on satisfying moments in their lives which usually represents a strength that can be positively adapted to help them dream of a future which might be. The process continues in terms of the clients using different tools to design their provocative propositions which is their own positive statement and hope of what is or what might be. In recognizing that their destiny is not underpinned by ‘shame’ and/or guilt clients are able to deliver a positive approach (literally and metaphorically) to their lives which enables feelings of enhanced self-esteem.

Glossary 1—Key Terms in Appreciative Inquiry (AI)

4 D Cycle

This is the very essence of Appreciative Inquiry and can be captured as a 4D cycle which is the discovery phasedream phase, design phase and destiny phase. An appreciative enquiry emphasizes on an individual’s positive aspects and potential rather than weaknesses.

Discovery Phase

This is a stage at which the direction of change is determined. This theme may be an opportunity for the individual to grow and thisis translated into an affirmative that invites formulations.

Dream Phase

In this stage of the 4D cycle people are expected to collectively assess their dreams versus their achievements in relation to their lifework and ambitions.

Design Phase

Drawing on the last two stagesvarious ideas and designs to implement the solutions are identified. These designs may be in the form of interventions to implement thoughts into practice and includes all steps need to make the dreams real

Destiny Phase

This is the last stage of the 4D cycle whereby participants are asked to fulfill different commitments and taskswhich may result in positive changes taking place.

Reflexivity

The researcher reflects on how their valuesbeliefs, experiences, interests and political orientation may affect their research.

Co-collaboration

Appreciative Inquiry is a collaborative process to engage people to discover the best in their context and is applied both from individual coaching and well as in a group context.