[trgn]

This is a specific example of a more general critique of therapy, or at least, classical psycho-analytics. It conflates that moment of insight (the "breakthrough") with healing, similar to how making a big poop is hard work, but really satisfying.

The power of this introspective moment of insight has an interesting parallel with the similar concept of catharsis. However, catharsis is outward focussed. It is through the careful absorption of art (e.g. a stage play in antiquity), which is fiction, and divorced from the self, that a healing release may occur.

So for the neurotics trying to avoid the trap you described, try channel that curiosity outward, direct it towards the minds of others, by paying careful attention to fiction. It won't change behavior per se, but at least will help with stepping out of oneself.

[throwawaylinux]

This sounds nice and plausible, but is it any better than any other psychological theory or therapy? Does it have any data behind it? How exactly are you defining and measuring "healing release", for example?

[trgn]

tbf, I have no idea if catharsis through art has scientific evidence. It has pedigree though.

[throwawaylinux]

Or anything else you claimed, by the sounds, no more than therapy or classical psychoanalysis or anything else anyway. Stepping out of oneself, channel curiosity outward, healing releases, etc. All just sounds exactly like all the other snakeoil to me. Unscientific mumbo jumbo that barely even means anything.