Jordan Peterson’s clinical philosophy, deeply rooted in cognitive-behavioral techniques and existential psychology, resonates with the Thomistic emphasis on rationality and moral responsibility. As a practicing clinician, I find Peterson’s work aligns with St. Thomas Aquinas’s understanding of human nature: individuals are rational beings capable of ordering their lives toward the good, provided they clarify their challenges and take responsibility for their resolution.

In this article, I explore Peterson’s views on clarifying problems and assuming responsibility, integrating evidence-based practices and Thomistic insights to demonstrate their practical and philosophical relevance.

Clarifying the Problem: The First Step in Healing

Peterson frequently emphasizes the importance of identifying and articulating problems, a principle mirrored in Aquinas’s teaching that reason discerns truth from confusion (Summa Theologiae, I-II, Q. 94, Art. 2). Without clarity, individuals flounder in chaos—disoriented and unable to act effectively.

Articulating Chaos

Peterson argues that vague and unexamined problems often feel insurmountable. Research supports this: writing about one’s emotions has been shown to reduce stress and improve psychological health (Pennebaker & Smyth, 2016). Peterson encourages clients to map their challenges, a process akin to Aquinas’s emphasis on the rational ordering of goods. By naming the problem, individuals bring order to their lives—a principle Aquinas would identify as participating in the divine Logos (ST, I, Q. 27, Art. 2).

Cognitive Restructuring and Mapping

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), one of the most evidence-based psychological frameworks, emphasizes the importance of identifying dysfunctional thought patterns (Beck, 2011). Similarly, Peterson recommends journaling or reflective practices to clarify problems. By externalizing their struggles, clients begin to see patterns and devise actionable solutions.

From a Thomistic perspective, this process reflects the rational soul’s capacity to perceive truth and direct the will accordingly (ST, I, Q. 76, Art. 1). When individuals clarify their problems, they align their intellect with the natural law written into their being.

Facing the Problem: Voluntary Confrontation

Once a problem is clarified, the next step is to face it directly. Peterson’s emphasis on confrontation mirrors Aquinas’s understanding of courage (fortitudo), which enables individuals to endure difficulties for the sake of the good (ST, II-II, Q. 123, Art. 1).

Incremental Exposure

Peterson’s clinical practice often involves graded exposure, a well-documented therapeutic technique for treating anxiety disorders (Foa et al., 2005). By confronting fears in small, manageable steps, clients gain confidence and mastery. For example, a person with social anxiety might begin by practicing small interactions before moving to larger social settings.

This practice echoes Aquinas’s principle of prudence (prudentia), which involves discerning the proper means to achieve the good (ST, II-II, Q. 47, Art. 1). Prudence ensures that individuals face challenges wisely and incrementally, preserving their capacity for long-term growth.

The Heroic Journey

Peterson often frames problem-solving as a heroic narrative: confronting the "dragon" of chaos to recover the "treasure" of order. This metaphor parallels the Christian understanding of redemptive suffering, where individuals imitate Christ by embracing their cross (Luke 9:23). For Aquinas, suffering borne for a higher good contributes to sanctification (ST, III, Q. 48, Art. 6).

Taking Responsibility: The Path to Meaning

Peterson repeatedly asserts that taking responsibility for one’s life is essential for finding meaning. This aligns with Aquinas’s teaching that human beings flourish when they act in accordance with their nature as rational and moral agents (ST, I-II, Q. 1, Art. 7).

Internal Locus of Control

Research indicates that an internal locus of control—believing one’s actions significantly influence outcomes—is associated with greater mental health and resilience (Rotter, 1966). Peterson encourages clients to adopt this mindset, empowering them to see themselves as agents of change.

Aquinas would agree that this internal control reflects the proper ordering of the intellect and will. When individuals assume responsibility, they align themselves with the divine law, acting as co-creators in their journey toward the ultimate good.

Responsibility as Meaning

Peterson’s assertion that meaning arises from responsibility finds philosophical support in Aquinas’s teleology. Humans achieve happiness (beatitudo) not through fleeting pleasures but by fulfilling their purpose through virtuous action (ST, I-II, Q. 2, Art. 1). By taking responsibility, individuals participate in their sanctification and contribute to the common good.

Evidence-Based Practices and Thomistic Integration

Peterson’s approach integrates seamlessly with evidence-based psychological practices and Thomistic principles:

1. Journaling and Problem Clarification: Supported by Pennebaker’s research and Aquinas’s emphasis on reason.
2. Graded Exposure: Validated by CBT research and Thomistic prudence.
3. Responsibility and Resilience: Linked to the locus of control studies and Aquinas’s teleological ethics.

Conclusion

Jordan Peterson’s clinical philosophy offers a powerful framework for addressing human suffering, rooted in evidence-based practices and resonating deeply with Thomistic thought. By clarifying their problems, facing challenges with courage, and assuming responsibility, individuals can transform chaos into order and suffering into meaning. This process not only improves mental health but also aligns with the Christian call to live a virtuous and purposeful life.

In a world often overwhelmed by relativism and despair, Peterson’s insights—and their Thomistic underpinnings—offer a hopeful and rational path forward.

References

1. Beck, A. T. (2011). Cognitive therapy: Basics and beyond. Guilford Press.
2. Foa, E. B., Hembree, E. A., & Rothbaum, B. O. (2005). Prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD: Emotional processing of traumatic experiences. Oxford University Press.
3. Pennebaker, J. W., & Smyth, J. M. (2016). Opening up by writing it down: How expressive writing improves health and eases emotional pain. Guilford Press.
4. Rotter, J. B. (1966). Generalized expectancies for internal versus external control of reinforcement. Psychological Monographs: General and Applied, 80(1), 1-28.
5. Thomas Aquinas. Summa Theologiae.