The Gestalt Cycle of Experience: A Creative Tool for Growth

This paper explores the value of teaching the Gestalt model of the Cycle of Experience (also known as the Interactive Contact Cycle) in a facilitated personal growth training program. The model was introduced experientially by way of graded exercises in Week Three of a standard program. Experiences were further consolidated in subsequent weeks. As a consequence, participants developed an experiential understanding that incorporated thoughts, feelings, and sensations, providing them with greater awareness of self and the ways in which they make or interrupt contact. This study has implications for a range of other programs, including adult and school education, drug education, and workplace training.