Polish literature: From lighthearted fiction to psychotherapy malpractice investigations

Recent literary discussions in Poland highlight diverse themes ranging from lighthearted fiction to serious investigations into professional malpractice.

Magdalena Witkiewicz’s novel, ‘Panny roztropne’, offers a humorous and warm narrative following characters like Milenka and Aleksandra Pieczka as they navigate love, life changes, and personal growth. The story focuses on the unpredictability of life and the courage required to start anew.

In contrast, Marianna Fijewska-Kalinowska and Ewa Podsiadły-Natorska address a darker subject regarding the lack of regulation in the Polish psychotherapy profession. Their work exposes ‘patoterapeuci’ (malpractice therapists)—individuals who, despite having high qualifications and academic standing, employ dangerous and unconventional methods. One documented case involved a therapist instructing a patient to visualize detailed murders of their parents over the course of 150 sessions to induce anger.