Forgoing short-term pleasure and comfort is important in order to complete day-to-day routines, responsibilities, and long-term goals. As a result, a person requires realistic limits. Individuals who did not have healthy limits set for them as children often have a hard time accepting realistic limits as a core need in adulthood.

1

2

3

A new approach to the problem uses new model reconceptualized the "realistic limits" core need as "freedom" instead.

Clients with this presenting problem are afraid that "limits" will take away their comfort and freedom

To cope with this fear, these clients develop approval/status seeking behaviors

Impulsive and entitled behavior is also a way to save comfort for them

New findings

The theoretical and empirical background of the freedom-focused approach, including new empirical findings about needs and coping mechanisms. The core need of the impaired limits domain.

The clinical applications of the freedom-focused approach, including the Upward Arrow technique (which helps clients understand and feel the need behind impulsive or entitled behavior) in addition to other experiential, cognitive, and behavioral techniques and therapy relationships. Schema Therapy techniques adapted for the freedom-focused approach

Techniques for a new approach

Insight into clients who see limits as "slavery" versus "sex, drugs, & rock 'n' roll"

Finding a balance