Introduction
Secondary gains are a concept within psychotherapy and counseling that refer to the positive outcomes that result from psychological or physical conditions, such as improved relationships, increased self-esteem, or increased attention from others (American Psychological Association, 2020). This paper will discuss the concept of secondary gains, its implications, and how it can be applied in counseling.
Definition and Implications
Secondary gains refer to the unanticipated benefits or rewards that result from a psychological or physical condition. These gains are beneficial to the individual, although they are not the primary goal of the condition. For example, an individual who experiences chronic pain may gain attention, sympathy, or financial benefits (American Psychological Association, 2020). Secondary gains can be both positive and negative. For example, an individual may gain increased self-esteem from being able to perform a physically challenging task, while another individual may experience a decreased sense of self-worth from being able to receive financial assistance.
Secondary gains can have both positive and negative implications. On the positive side, secondary gains can provide an individual with motivation to address the condition and to seek out solutions (American Psychological Association, 2020). For example, an individual may be motivated to seek treatment for chronic pain if they are motivated by the potential financial benefit they may receive. On the other hand, secondary gains can also lead to negative consequences. For example, an individual may become dependent on the secondary gain and may not actively seek out treatments or solutions to the condition (American Psychological Association, 2020).
Applications in Counseling
Secondary gains can be addressed in counseling through awareness and exploration. Counselors should be aware of potential secondary gains and should explore them with their clients. For example, a counselor may ask their client if they are receiving any benefits from their condition, such as increased attention or support from family and friends (American Psychological Association, 2020). The counselor should then explore the implications of these secondary gains, both positive and negative, and discuss possible solutions with the client.
Ultimately, the goal of addressing secondary gains in counseling is to help the client recognize how the gains are impacting their condition and to develop strategies to address the condition without relying on the secondary gain. For example, an individual may be encouraged to seek out treatments for chronic pain without relying on the sympathy and attention they receive from family and friends (American Psychological Association, 2020).
Conclusion
Secondary gains are a concept in psychotherapy and counseling that refer to the positive and negative outcomes that result from psychological or physical conditions. Secondary gains can have both positive and negative implications, and addressing them in counseling can help clients recognize the impact of the gains on their condition and develop strategies to address the condition without relying on the secondary gain.
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Understanding secondary gains. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/secondary-gains