Dialectics refers both to a means of communication and to a world view. Both are central to the DBT model. This is a complex topic, so we will just give a brief answer here. If you have more questions about this, please be sure to ask your provider.
In brief, a dialectic exists when two opposites co-exist. Instead of focusing on which position is “right” and “wrong,” dialectics would assume there is validity in both points. When one thinks dialectically, one assumes something is being left out from any one point of view; instead of assuming one is correct, one considers what is missing in one’s own perspective, seeks out the opposing view, and can hold both sides as true at the same time. For example, when one is cut off in traffic, instead of thinking, “What a jerk!” one could consider both that they don’t like being cut off AND there are reasons why the other driver did so. Dialectical thinking can be extremely helpful in increasing flexibility and decreasing “black and white” or rigid thinking that can lead to intense emotions.
There are many examples of dialectics in DBT, but the primary dialectic is that of acceptance and change. Rather than focusing only on acceptance or only on change, DBT puts equal, intense emphasis on accepting an individual just as they are AND working hard to change the responses (emotions, thoughts, overt behaviors, etc.) that are causing problems.
A dialectical world view also emphasizes the interconnection of all things. A relevant example relates to the “identified patient” in a family. Instead of laying blame on a particular person (e.g., the client, the parents, etc.), a dialectical world view suggests that each family member’s behavior influenced the other members, and that with enough interactions over time, both sides can have significant influence on the other. In other words, our responses are caused by events, and our responses in turn cause other events; we can understand and change these patterns without judgment and blame.
There are many other ways dialectics arise in treatment, including creating balance in one’s life and in one’s therapy sessions. Your DBT therapist will discuss this concept with you and provide more examples.