In transpersonal psychology, the value in diversity also extends to definitions of mental health and healing practices. However, from the perspective of meditative traditions or indigenous cultures, these are seen as normal signs of development or indications of extraordinary mental health. Extreme distortions of body image and hearing the voices of ancestors would likely trigger psychiatric treatment in a modern mental health center, but they could be cause for celebration as a shamanic call among indigenous people. Unity Transpersonal psychology also recognizes universal dimensions of being and the unity that underlies the variety of forms. From this perspective, differences shift to the background, and the fundamental nonduality of the universe comes to the foreground.
Holism underpins the transpersonal approach.
Transpersonal psychology has been criticized for emphasizing this oneness at the expense of diversity, and this criticism should be heard. I find myself particularly drawn to the argument that unity is an easier position to adopt for those in power than for those who are marginalized. Nevertheless, unity is at the foundation of a transpersonal view. This page was updated on March 27, 2000.