Erlebensfall

Erlebensfall is a German term that translates to "case of experience" or "lived experience." It is a concept primarily used in the fields of psychology and psychotherapy, particularly within phenomenological and existential approaches. The term emphasizes the subjective, personal, and immediate nature of an individual's consciousness and their lived reality. It refers to the totality of a person's experiences, including their thoughts, feelings, sensations, perceptions, and interpretations of the world.

In psychotherapy, understanding the Erlebensfall of a client is crucial. Instead of focusing solely on objective symptoms or diagnostic categories, the therapist aims to grasp the client's unique and personal way of experiencing their problems and their life. This involves deep empathy and an effort to see the world from the client's perspective, acknowledging the meaning they ascribe to their experiences. The focus is on the "how" of experiencing, not just the "what."

The concept highlights that individuals do not passively receive reality but actively construct their understanding of it through their personal history, values, and current state of being. Therefore, therapeutic interventions are often tailored to the specific Erlebensfall of the individual, aiming to foster greater self-awareness and facilitate new ways of relating to one's own experiences. It is a cornerstone of qualitative research in psychology, where the goal is to explore and understand the richness and complexity of human subjective life.