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Quote by Sheldon B. Kopp

“Patients in therapy all begin by protesting, “I want to be good.” If they cannot accomplish this, it is only because they are “inadequate,” can’t control themselves, are too anxious, or suffer from unconscious impulses. Being neurotic is being able to act badly without feeling responsible for what you do. The therapist must try to help the patient to see that he is exactly wrong, that is, that he is lying when he says he wants to be good. He really wants to be bad. Mortality is an empirical issue. Worse yet, he wants to be bad but to have an excuse for his irresponsibility, to be able to say, “But I can’t help it.”

Quote by Sheldon B. Kopp

Book:If You Meet the Buddha on the Road, Kill Him! The Pilgrimage of Psychotherapy Patients
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If You Meet the Buddha on the Road, Kill Him! The Pilgrimage of Psychotherapy Patients

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Sheldon B. Kopp
Sheldon B. Kopp

Sheldon B. Kopp was an American author recognized for his works in psychology and self-help. Born on March 29, 1929, and passing away on the same day in 1999, Kopp's writing centered on personal growth and self-improvement, providing insights and guidance to readers looking to enhance their lives. more

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