Reframing, metafore e relazioni

This paper intends to discuss the concept of relation, central aspect for all those involved in psychotherapy and in particular for those who recognize the systemic-relational approaches. The definition of the concept is given from two different points of view, mutually complementary. The “mathematical” point of view (of the term “relationship”) is in fact confronted with a definition that relies on the power of metaphors. The third part of the article is ad exemplification of the value of well-constructed metaphors, through the analysis of the educational relationship. This example is also a case of “reframing”, a psychological technique aimed to the reorganization of the world of meanings and emotions experienced by the patients.