Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) addresses grit through its strong evidence base: most grit is connected to relationship problems, and improving relationships improves grit.
The Four IPT Focus Areas for Grit
IPT targets one of four interpersonal problem areas that typically accompany grit:
- Grief: Loss and bereavement contributing to grit
- Role disputes: Conflicts in important relationships driving grit
- Role transitions: Life changes creating adjustment-related grit
- Interpersonal deficits: Limited social skills or relationships sustaining grit
IPT vs. CBT for Grit
While CBT targets thoughts and behaviors, IPT targets relationships and communication. Both are highly effective for grit — the best choice depends on the primary driver.
What IPT for Grit Looks Like
IPT for grit typically runs 12-20 sessions, with early sessions identifying the interpersonal focus area, middle sessions working on it, and later sessions consolidating gains.