A “language” dimensional perspective on writing therapy under the framework of narrative medicine
10.12026/j.issn.1001-8565.2026.02.12
- VernacularTitle:叙事医学视域下写作疗愈的“语言”维度透视
- Author:
Caixuan FANG
1
Author Information
1. School of Literature， Journalism and Communication， Qingdao University， Qingdao 266071， China
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
writing therapy;
narrative medicine;
poetry therapy;
positive self-expression
- From:
Chinese Medical Ethics
2026;39(2):223-228
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Writing possesses therapeutic effects. The primary distinction between writing therapy and other art-based healing modalities lies in the expression form of “language.” Language serves as the key to healing trauma. Adopting language as a means for reflection， writing subjects articulate their feelings and construct a meaningful story， thereby mobilizing the cognitive function of the left brain and restoring the functional balance status of the post-traumatic left and right brain. Writing therapy confronts dilemmas both within and beyond language. The unspeakable civilized social structure poses challenges to writing therapy. Approaches such as seeking support of collective narratives， employing literary rhetoric for indirect expression， and strengthening educational guidance to reduce cultural biases and stigmatization management can preserve the positive impact of writing therapy. Language struggles to express the traumatic internal experience. Writing subjects can express pain and trauma symbolically through positive and vibrant self-expression and utilizing metaphors， thereby better leveraging the social function of writing therapy and broadening its social application.
