A meaning-centred, whole-school approach for responsible decision-making: The Logotherapeutic Framework

Abstract

This article briefly examines Guidance Counselling in the Irish context. An analysis of the current decision-making climate and context suggests that there is a need to develop responsible decision-making skills in students, as reflected in the new Junior Cycle Key Skills. A meaning-centred, whole-school approach to develop responsible decision-making is then proposed. The paper identifies the characteristics of self-control, self-insight, modelling, and goal setting as necessary attributes in responsible decision-making. Examined from a whole-school perspective, the significance of meaning, expectation, and perceived vision of failure is considered in terms of student and staff motivation. Building on the counselling framework of Viktor Frankl’s Logotherapy and in light of changes to the provision of school guidance, The Logotherapeutic Framework for responsible decision-making (TLF) is offered as a whole-school approach to achieve educational and guidance counselling objectives. The article discusses how the features of the TLF contribute to our mental and physical health. The philosophical and empirical bases for the approach, potential classroom strategies, along with future research recommendations are examined.