Toward a More Precise Definition of “Emotional” and “Intellectual” Insight

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Abstract
When a psychotherapy patient has “intellectual” insight, he theoretically acknowledges that his beliefs are erroneous and his behavior is self-defeating and wishes that he would change; but he actually makes no consistent effort to change; and he ends up by still firmly believing what he wishes he would not. When a patient has “emotional” insight, he wishes, again, that he would change his basic ways of believing and acting, but he also fully believes that he can change and he keeps working at changing until he really does significantly modify his thoughts, emotions, and actions. “Intellectual” insight is nothing but an idle New Year's resolution (or fond dream) that one will alter effortlessly. “Emotional” insight is the determined work and practice that alone will make the wish or dream a reality.

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