
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as tapping, is a pseudo-scientific counselling method that has been adapted for use in counselling and as a self-healing tool. It involves tapping your fingertips on the twelve main meridian points of the body. While some proponents of EFT argue in favour of its benefits, others in the science and mental health communities view it as a pseudoscience lacking empirical support. From a spiritual perspective, there are also concerns about the technique, as its foundational concept is based on the Eastern concept of chi and meridians, or pathways of energy flow within the body, which is unbiblical.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Philosophical basis | "Energy movement" in the body |
Eastern mysticism | |
Self-promotion | |
Scientific validity | Lacks scientific validity |
Compatibility with Christianity | Contradicts the Bible |
Not based on God's revelation of scripture | |
Does not recognize the sinfulness of man | |
Does not depend on God and his healing power | |
Founder | Gary Craig |
Year founded | 1990s |
Alternative name | Tapping |
Tapping points | Top of the head, the eyebrows, sides of the eyes, under the eyes, under the nose, the chin, the collar bones, under the arms on the sides, and the wrists |
What You'll Learn
EFT is based on Eastern mysticism
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a pseudoscientific counselling method that draws from various practices of alternative medicine and mystic thought. EFT is based on the Eastern concept of chi and meridians, or pathways of energy flow within the body. The foundational concept in EFT is that all negative emotions are caused by a disruption in the body's energy system stemming from negative events.
The tapping of the Emotional Freedom Technique is based on the Eastern concept of chi and meridians. The technique involves using one's fingertips to tap several times on each of the twelve main meridian points of the body. The idea is to use the kinetic energy of the fingers and transfer that energy to body parts while thinking about a specific problem. This is to help one heal emotionally.
The philosophy underlying EFT is that there can be a self-administered tool for universal healing. It promotes itself as the solution to all of life's problems, whether emotional, physical, or psychological, by 'tuning in' to where the problems lie and then tapping to realign the 'energy meridians' of the body. EFT teaches that a 'universal life-force energy' exists in all things and believes in the energy force ('Chi') of humans, and in the opposing forces of Yin and Yang.
The concept of meridians and chi is completely unbiblical. The Bible does not recognise the existence of energy pathways in the body. Instead, it speaks of God holding all things together (Col 1:17, Heb 1:3). It also does not speak of a 'mystic chi' but of humans having body, mind, soul, and spirit (I Thess 5:2, Heb 4:12).
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EFT contradicts the Bible
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) contradicts the Bible. EFT is a pseudo-scientific counselling method that draws from alternative medicine and mystic thought. The foundational concept in EFT is that all negative emotions are caused by a disruption in the body's energy system stemming from negative events. This is based on the Eastern concept of chi and meridians, or pathways of energy flow within the body, which is unbiblical.
EFT promotes itself as a solution to all of life's problems, which goes against what scripture says about sickness and suffering. Suffering will continue until death itself is defeated, and Christians will face persecution. When suffering, the Bible instructs Christians to pray for healing, repent, and call for the elders. EFT, on the other hand, combines mysticism with healing, similar to old superstitions of witch doctors and curses.
EFT teaches that a 'universal life-force energy' exists in all things, and that humans have a 'mystic chi'. This is not compatible with Christianity, which states that God holds all things together and set up natural laws. EFT also contradicts the Bible by not recognising the sinfulness of man and by not depending on God and His healing power. Instead, EFT seeks to rebalance the body's energy system through physical tapping of meridians.
While some Christians have found EFT effective for emotional and physical healing, it is not a biblically sound method.
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EFT is pseudoscience
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is considered a pseudoscience by many in the science and mental health communities due to its lack of empirical support. It is a form of "energy psychology" based on the Eastern concept of chi and meridians, or pathways of energy flow within the body. The foundational concept in EFT is that all negative emotions are caused by a disruption in the body's energy system stemming from negative events.
Proponents of EFT argue that it is no different from receiving acupuncture or taking medications. However, critics point out that the concept of meridians and chi is unbiblical and that the technique is based on mysticism and superstition. They argue that EFT is incompatible with Christianity and that it promotes a "pseudo-religious, mystical therapy program".
EFT has been criticised for its lack of solid scientific evidence and for being backed by questionable research. It is not endorsed by the American Psychological Association. The research that does exist often has flaws, such as a lack of adequate control groups, small sample sizes, and a lack of double-blinding.
While some studies have shown positive effects of EFT, these effects are attributed to characteristics it shares with more traditional therapies, such as the use of positive affirmations and the placebo effect. Thus, while some individuals may find relief from negative emotions through EFT, it is important to analyse the effectiveness of the technique itself scientifically to prevent psychological harm and ensure that those struggling with mental and physical diseases receive proper and adequate treatment.
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EFT is not a substitute for medical or psychological care
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is not a substitute for medical or psychological care. While it is promoted as a solution to all of life's problems, EFT is a pseudo-scientific counselling method that combines elements of alternative medicine and mystic thought. It is based on the Eastern concept of chi and meridians, or pathways of energy flow within the body, which is not supported by empirical evidence and is unbiblical.
EFT is generally considered a part of "energy psychology" and is characterised as pseudoscience. It has not garnered significant support in clinical psychology and is dismissed by publications such as The Skeptic's Dictionary and Quackwatch. While some studies have shown positive effects of EFT, these are attributed to well-known psychological mechanisms such as distraction and breathing therapy, rather than the tapping or stimulation of acupuncture points.
The Bible encourages believers to seek relief from negative emotions and emotional pain, but tapping or Emotional Freedom Technique is not a biblically sound method. Instead, the Bible instructs believers to give their burdens to God and pray for healing.
While EFT may provide temporary relief or a placebo effect, it should not be relied upon as a substitute for proper medical or psychological care. If you are experiencing mental health issues, physical ailments, or other problems, it is important to seek professional help from a qualified healthcare provider.
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EFT can be adapted to be used by Christians
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as "tapping", is a pseudo-scientific counselling method that has been adapted for use in various contexts, including by Christians. While the original form of EFT is not considered compatible with Christianity, some Christians have adapted the practice to suit their beliefs.
EFT is based on the Eastern concept of "chi" and meridians, or pathways of energy flow within the body. The foundational concept is that all negative emotions are caused by a disruption in the body's energy system stemming from negative events. EFT seeks to rebalance the body's energy system through physically tapping meridians.
Christians who use EFT typically incorporate prayer and Scripture meditation into the practice. They may also incorporate confession, repentance, and forgiveness, as well as visualising themselves healed and in the loving arms of God. Some Christian EFT practitioners use another technique called Matrix Reimprinting to achieve even deeper emotional healing.
Christians who adapt EFT typically avoid the mystical aspects of the original practice, such as the belief in a universal life-force energy. Instead, they focus on God's role as the source of healing and the need for salvation in Jesus Christ. They also emphasise the importance of giving burdens to God rather than trying to "tap away" negative emotions.
While some Christians have found EFT to be an effective tool for emotional and physical healing, others argue that it is not a biblically sound method and that Christians should avoid it due to its roots in Eastern mysticism.
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Frequently asked questions
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a pseudo-scientific counselling method that draws from many practices of alternative medicine and mystic thought. It involves tapping your fingertips on the twelve main meridian points of the body.
EFT is based on the Eastern concept of chi and meridians, or pathways of energy flow within the body. It states that all negative emotions are caused by a disruption in the body's energy system stemming from negative events.
No, EFT is not compatible with Christianity. The concept of meridians and chi is unbiblical. The Bible states that God holds all things together, not a mystic force.
The Bible says that suffering will continue until death itself is defeated and that Christians will face persecution. When suffering from an affliction or disease, we are to pray for healing.
Christians who are suffering can pray for healing and comfort. They can also seek professional help from Christian counsellors or therapists.