Write a letter with your non-dominant hand
Write a letter by hand with the hand you use less, as Bradshaw's technique is named in its publisher listing.
Why it works
The publisher listing for Bradshaw's Homecoming names non-dominant-hand letter writing among the book's techniques. The listing does not say how the technique works, so this page does not state an effect for it.
How to do it
- Write a letter by hand using your non-dominant hand.
Evidence
This technique is described here from the publisher's description of Bradshaw's book (Hachette UK listing), not from the book itself. The listing names it and gives no steps. No study of this technique was found. The imagery rescripting research below tests a different, therapist-guided technique and is evidence by analogy only. (anecdotal)
Imagery rescripting (Arntz 2012; Kip et al. 2023) tests a therapist-guided imagery technique for distressing memories, not letter writing. The publisher listing also names affirmations; they are deliberately left out, because repeating scripted positive statements can feel cut off from reality and can cause harm without a skilled guide. Stop if you feel flooded, lose track of where you are, or find images that will not settle, and continue only with a trained therapist.
Sources
- Bradshaw, J. Homecoming: Reclaiming and Championing Your Inner Child. Hachette UK paperback listing (ISBN 9780749910549; on sale 28 March 1991).
- Arntz, A. (2012). Imagery rescripting as a therapeutic technique: Review of clinical trials, basic studies, and research agenda. Journal of Experimental Psychopathology, 3(2), 189-208.
- Kip, A., Schoppe, L., Arntz, A., & Morina, N. (2023). Efficacy of imagery rescripting in treating mental disorders associated with aversive memories: An updated meta-analysis. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 99, 102772.
Common mistake
Expecting the technique to settle something by itself. The listing names it, but no study of it was found, and it is one technique among several in the book.
Practice this with IX Coach
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