This is relating to the therapeutic technique of anchoring (not to be confused with the cognitive bias of the same name) wherein the therapist uses something (eg a “safe” topic) to bring the client back to ‘normality’. I believe this is part of Neuro-linguistic programming though I’ve seen it used by therapists from a range of theoretical backgrounds.

It’s connected to Pavlov (woof!) and conditioned response stuff. I don’t know about you, but someone asking me about TheDayJob is the therapeutic equivalent of having an anchor dropped on my head, so I guess that means it works!

Anyway. Whatever. Theory is dull. Cartoons are funny.

I’m also rather pleased with the drawing in the last panel because, well, it’s something more complicated than legs.