Fostering Healthy

Connections

We envision a world in which the dominant value of hyper-individualism—leading to fear and isolation—is replaced by the widespread recognition that true progress lies in the power of our connections to one another and our environment.

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Relational Cultural Theory

RCT extends far beyond personal relationships to consider the structures and systems that shape our wider society. Over the years, RCT has come to influence scholarship and practice in psychology, psychiatry, counseling, education, the arts, organizational development, community development, faith and spirituality, and the environment. Our hope is that RCT will help shift the dominant paradigm from “me” to “we,” thereby creating a more just and hopeful world.

We need connection just as we need air and water. Our bodies are designed to manage stress by turning to trusted others when we are anxious or scared. The reduction in stress that comes from a healthy relationship and a sense of belonging is powerful, and it is clear that growth-fostering relationships provide the resilience that enables us to persevere even in the most difficult times.

What does a growth-fostering relationship look like? For us, it comes down to a set of felt conditions that we call “The Five Good Things.”

The Five Good Things

Zest

Zest in emotional connection translates into a feeling of aliveness. This interplay is brimming with a sense of vitality and energy.

PRODUCTIVITY

Empowered action translates into each person feeling more motivated and more able to take action in relationship beyond the dyad.

CLARITY

Each person develops a clearer understanding of the other—and of the self. The relationship is more whole, more nuanced, more layered — and therefore, more accurate.

INCREASED SENSE OF WORTH

The relationship enables each person to feel a greater sense of worth. We thrive when others recognize our existence — not in the abstract, but in the very moments we are face to face.

desire for connection

Each person feels more connected to the other and feels a greater motivation to connect with others in general.

AFFINITY GROUPS

Relational-Cultural Theory spans a variety of disciplines — among them, psychology and social work; neuroscience and medicine; social and economic justice; and education.

In each of these areas, we are inviting people who are committed to join a group of kindred spirits to shape a learning and action agenda that draws on Relational-Cultural Theory in the respective disciplines. Our intention is to provide the basic structure for such an agenda so that the work can emerge organically, based on the needs and desires of those who participate. The three groups that have launched to date are described below. Please join us!

Education as Relational Practice (EARP) Group

The Education as a Relational Practice Group (EARP) is a community of educators from a range of domains who collaborate and support each other in a continuing exploration of RCT as a guiding force in education.

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Psychotherapy Affinity Group

Relational Cultural Theory Psychotherapy Affinity Group is a community of mental wellness professionals who study and practice the healing power of connection and the creation of growth-fostering relationships in the clinical application of Relational Cultural Theory.

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Learn With Us

Books

Works from leaders in the field about growth in connection in a variety of settings.

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Bibliography

Relational-Cultural Theory has spawned a large and interdisciplinary body of scholarship.

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Works In Progress

A publication series developed by the two organizations that were the precursors to ICGC: the Stone Center and the Jean Baker Miller Training Institute.

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