Vol.10, No.2

2020

September 2020

International Journal of Brief Therapy and Family ScienceVol. 10, No. 2, 2020

CONTENTS
Original Papers (Research and Experiment)
Effects of relationships with friends on reactions towards teasers–from the perspective of emotions toward teasers and for maintaining a relationshipKoiwa, K., Okuno, M, and Wakashima, K. .…………….……………..……………..……..1-13

Short Case Reports
Brief Coaching for Supporting Transitions in Employment
Nihonmatsu, N., Hiraizumi, T., Takagi, G., Sakamoto, K, and Ishitobi, A. ..…………14-21
Case study on rebuilding the marital relationship of an elderly couple facing a
psychological crisis
Yu, K.R., Kozuka, T, and Yashiro, T.…………….…………….…………….………………...…22-28

International Journal of Brief Therapy and Family Science2020 Vol. 10, No.2, 1-13
< Original Paper: Research and Experiment or Case Report >Effects of relationships with friends on reactions towards teasers
from the perspective of emotions toward teasers and for maintaining a relationshipKouhei Koiwa1) Masako Okuno2) Koubun Wakashima1)
1)

Graduate School of Education, Tohoku University

2)

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Iwate University

ABSTRACT. Reactions to teasing in everyday situations were investigated by focusing on emotions towards teasers and needs formaintaining a relationship. A questionnaire was administered to Japanese university students (N=150, 71 men and 79 women, mean
age=19.29 years old, SD=1.38). Covariance structure analysis developed a causal model of teasing reactions, which indicated thatemotions toward teasers, including trust and independence, suppressed adverse reactions to teasing. On the other hand, the sense ofrivalry caused adverse reactions. It is suggested that anxiety about relationships and needs for mutual respect might cause
exaggerated reactions.
KEY WORDS: teasing, reaction, relationshipIntroduction

aggressiveness or a sense of superiority (Ueno,

Definition and functions of teasing1992). It has been indicated that teasing has

Teasing is one type of aggressive sense ofharmful effects. For example, teasing might

humor (Ueno, 1992). It is also "an intentional

lead to a type of bullying (Keltner, Young,provocation accompanied by playful off-record

Heerey, Oemig & Monarch, 1998), and teasing

markers

thegirls about their bodies might cause eating

characteristics of the target (Keltner, Capps,

disorders (Thompson, Coovert & Stormer,

Kring, Young, & Heerey, 2001). Off-record1999). On the other hand, according to themarkers are verbal or non-verbal cues that arelatter viewpoint, teasing has a function of

expressed in association with teasing, such as

making people become more close (Martin,

smiles, exaggerations, and playful tones of2007). Moreover, Endo (2008) indicated thatvoice, among others.

mutual provocations might be confirmation of aPrevious studies on teasing have classified

close relationship between two people. In theteasing into two types; the perception of teasingpresent study, based on Martin (2007) and Endo

as an attack, and teasing as a prosocial(2008), teasing was regarded as a prosocial

interaction. According to the former viewpoint,interaction.

that

togethercommentonteasing is an expression of suppressed
Attitudes of Teasers
CORRESPONDENCE TO: Koiwa Tohoku University 27-1,

Teasing has been examined from the

Kawauchi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi, 980-8576, JAPANstandpoints of the teaser and the target, ande-mail: Kohei.Koiwa.r7.@dc.tohoku.ac.jp

most studies have considered the teaser s

1

2

Koiwa et al.

intentions.

For

example,Martin(2007)

develop a negative impression (Endo, 2008). As

suggested that one person teases another persona result, the feelings and the understanding

to send a friendly message. Moreover, a teaser

between teasers and targets often disagree.

changes the content of teasing depending on the

Moreover, a previous study on the reactions oftarget, e.g., when a target is a person of highera target to teasing indicated three types ofstatus, the teaser teases about his/her positive

reactions; clearly expressing uncomfortableaspects, whereas the teaser teases the target

feelings (emotionally expressive reactions),

aggressively if the target is a person thatshowing favorable attitudes toward teasing

dissatisfies the teaser, (Keltner et al.,1998).

(compliant reactions), and dealing with theSometimes teasing fails because of inadequate

situation, including pretending not to notice thecommunication methods, insufficient skills,

teasing (evasive reactions; Hayama and Sakurai,

unsuitable facial expressions, and too many2010). Hayama et al. (2010) also indicated that

repetitions, among others, which makes thethe relationship between the speaker and thetarget uncomfortable (Hayama & Sakurai,

listener was one determinant of these reactions.

2008).
Moreover, it has been indicated that teasers

Relationships between

teasersandthebehaviors are profoundly affected by thetargets

targets reactions to teasing. For example, theStudies have examined teasing from theteaser s feeling of affinity towards the target

perspective of the teaser and the target, which

increase when the target smiles (Martin, 2007)

mutually affect each other. Therefore, it isand the sense of acceptance as well as thenecessary to focus on the relationship between

sense of understanding of others

increase,

the two. However, there are only a few studies

leading to an expectation that the friendly

on the relationship between the teaser and theintentions of extreme jokes will be understoodtarget,(Hayama & Sakurai, 2010). Thus, teasers

psychological distance between them. Endo

attitudes change depending on the targets(2008) indicated that teasing tends to failreactions.

because of the mismatch in recognizing the

and

these

have

investigatedthepsychological distance between the teaser andAttitudes of Targets

the target. Moreover, Hayama and Sakurai

Previous studies on attitudes of targets have(2010) indicated that emotionally expressive

examined their impressions about teasing. In

reactions tend to be made to uncomfortablemany cases, the targets of teasing tend to haveteasing

more negative impressions about teasing thanbetween the teaser and the target is short.

teasers assume (Keltner et al.,1998). When theOn the other hand, relationships between

targetssocial skills are low, they cannot

teasers and targets should be investigated fromrecognize the friendly intentions in teasing andthe perspective of the need for a desirable

when

the

psychologicaldistanceRelationships and Teasing Reactions

relationshipandemotions

counterpart.

According

Shimatani (2012),

to3

towardsthe(Watzlawick.

Kasahara

andcommunication by teasing is affected by thecommunication between

et

al.,

1967).

Therefore,

relationship between the teaser and the target.

two people differs according to each other'sStudies on the pragmatics of communicationneed for friendship. Also, reactions of targets inhave indicated two aspects of communication;teasing settings might differ according to thedigital and analog (Watzlawick. et al., 1967).

targets' needs for maintaining relationships with

Digital communication is

the teasers.

using

towards

Moreover, the target s emotions

theteasermight

belanguage,"communication

whereasanalogrelevant.

communication is all types of communication

Communication studies related to family

without using language, but using attitudes,

therapy have indicated that when relationships

gestures, facial expressions, and voice tones,

between two people are unstable, they showamong others. Most studies related to family

communication behaviors to approach eachtherapy have examined digital communication

other (Ikuta, 1999; Sugawara & Ikuta, 2001).

asAlso, a different type of communication from

communication as the management aspect of

the usual might take place in teasing settings

communication (e.g., Wakashima, 1997; Okuno,

when the target is anxious or has conflicts in2013). Moreover, a mixture of content andthe relationship with the teaser.

management aspects is observed in studies onthecontent

aspectteasing reactions, including
study

analogpretending toaccept a joke by laughing (Hayama & Sakurai,

Pragmatics of communication
This

and

as

2010). Furthermore, teasing often involves

communication between teasers and targets

paradoxical communication (Keltner et al.,

based

human

1998), such as showing inconsistency between(Watzlawick, Beavelas, &the content and management aspects as in theonconceptualized
thecommunication
Jackson,teasingpragmatics

1967),

whichofperceivescase of saying

Stop itwhile smiling.

communication as a mutual effect between the

Therefore, it is necessary to examine thesenderreactions of a target to teasing from theandreceiver.

Pragmatics

communication introduces
meta-communication,ofthe concept ofaBased on the above discussion, this study

higher-level message than the typical message

focused on relationships between teasers and(Watzlawick. et al., 1967). Communicating bytargets, especially the emotions of a targets

teasing sends a positive message to the target

towards teasers, and the need for maintaining awhile being verbally provocating, which is arelationship with teasers, and examined thetypeeffects of teasing on the reactions of the targets.

of

which

conveysperspectives of content and management.

meta-communication.

Meta-communication is established based ontherelationshipbetweencommunicators

Methods

4

Koiwa et al.

1) Participants

comprising of 21 items; needs for affinity

Japanese university students (M=178, 71 men(e.g., I want to stay with A),

and 79 women, mean age=19.29 years of age,conformity (e.g., I want A to conform his/her

SD=1.38) participated in the study. They

hobbies and behaviors with mine), and needs

provided 150 valid responses.

for mutual respect (e.g., I want to talk honestly2) Survey periodwith A). Responses were made using a

The survey was conducted in October 2017.

six-point scale. The total score for the items

3) Questionnaires

was used as the item score.

Respondents were requested to assume A,(3) The Reactions to Teasing Questionnaire:

who is a same sex friend that sometimes teases

This questionnaire was developed based on theyou. Then respondents were asked about theirclassification of teasing reactions by Koiwa andfeelings toward A and the need for maintaining

Okuno (2017), e.g.,a relationship with A. Their reactions to A s

facial expression. The questionnaire includes 9

teasing were also inquired.

items inquiring about content aspects and 56(1) The Emotions Towards Friends Scale

items inquiring about management aspects,(Enomoto, 1999): This scale assesses emotions

consisting of 65 items. The responses weretowards friends. The respondents emotions

made using a six-point scale.

needs forshowing a dissatisfied

toward A were assessed in this study. The scale
includes the following subscales comprising ofResults

25 items;

1. Results of factor analyzing teasing

trust/stability(e.g., I trust A),

anxiety/worry (e.g., I m worried about how A

reaction items

thinks about me),(e.g., I

Among the 9 items assessing content aspects

behave according to my will even when staying

and 56 items assessing management aspects ofwith A), a sense of rivalry (e.g., I don t wantteasing reactions, 21 items indicated a floor

to lose to A in many points), and conflicts

effect. Three items indicated a floor effect;(e.g., I cannot say my ideas to A). Respondents

however, they were judged as expressing

responded using a six-point scale. The total

uncomfortable feelings about teasing. Therefore,

value of the items was used as the item score.

these items were considered indispensable to(2) The Needs for Friends Scale (Enomoto,teasing reactions and included in the factor

2000): This scale assesses needs for friends.

analysis. These items included (5) Responding

The respondents needs for the relationshipinwith A were assessed in the present study. The

Responding in an offended tone," and (45)scale

Having a dissatisfied attitude.

includestheindependence

followingsubscalesasmaller

voice

than

usual;(22),

Relationships and Teasing Reactions

5

Table 1. The results of factor analysis of the content aspect of teasing reactions
Item content

F1F2(29) Reacting to jokes

.715

.114

(1) Responding playfully by accepting teasing

.710

-.231

(9) Teasing back

.585

-.030

(12) Making fun of oneself by accepting teasing

.536

.124

(41) Making an excuse

.084

.621

(40) Asking back, by saying What do you mean?

.204

.507

(21) Saying, Stop it, or I don t like it.

-.130

.460

(51) Apologizing

-.100

.414

Correlation between factors

F1

F2

Accep ance ( =.711)

Rejec ion ( =.558)

F1

-0.10

F2

Factor analysis was conducted on the 9 items

factor included items related to exaggeratedofreactions to teasing, such as

content

aspectusing

themaximum

big gestures,

likelihood method and Promax rotation, which

exaggerated gestures,

extracted two factors. One factor included

high-toned

components of accepting teasing, such as

Exaggerated reactions.

reacting to jokes and responding playfully,

included

which was named the Acceptance factor. The

towardother factor included components of rejecting

attitudes and dissatisfied facial expressions,

teasing, such as making excuses or asking towhich was named Dissatisfied reactions. The

stop it,

Rejection

third factor included items related to enjoyingof the admitting factor

teasing, such as "a playful tone" or "a brightwas .711, and the rejection factor was .558. The

mood, which was named Cheerful reactions.

results of the factor analysis are shown in Table

The fourth factor included items related to calm

1.

and usual reactions such as usual attitudes,

Next, factor analysis was conducted on the 56

usual tone, and a gentle tone, which wasitems of the management aspect using thenamedmaximum likelihood method and Promax

Exaggerated reactions was .827, Dissatisfied

rotation, which extracted four factors. The firstreactionswhich was named thefactor. Chronbach s

voice,

items
theloud voice,
which

such

Calm reactions.
was .802,

named

The second factor

expressing

teaser,wasanddissatisfactionasdissatisfied

Chronbach saofCheerful reactions

6

Koiwa et al.

Table 2. Results of factor analyzing management aspects of teasing reactions
Item content

F1

F2

F3

F4

(62) Showing more pronounced gestures than usual

.833

.015

-.047

.101

(14) Responding in a bigger voice than usual

.797

-.020

.031

-.019

(17) Showing exaggerated gestures

.673

.081

.064

.173

(23) Responding in a higher tone than usual

.667

-.107

-.007

-.169

(38) Showing facial expressions of dissatisfaction

-.058

.934

-.007

.078

(45) Taking attitudes of dissatisfied

-.007

.780

.023

.055

(22) Responding in an offended tone

.055

.536

-.049

-.205

(4) Responding in a playful tone

.045

.037

.836

-.061

(6) Taking a bright attitude

.007

-.001

.830

-.023

(5) Responding in a smaller voice than usual

.022

.061

-.506

-.033

(24) Taking the usual attitude

-.135

-.041

.106

.563

(43) Responding in a gentle tone

.133

.111

-.100

.540

(52) Responding in the usual tone

.013

-.183

.014

.484

F1

F2

F3

F4

0.11

0.19

-0.02

-0.54

-0.44

Exaggerated reactions ( =.827)

Dissatisfied reactions ( =.802)

Cheerful reactions ( =.759)

Calm reactions ( =.560)

Correlations between factors
F1
F2
F3

0.53

F4

was .759, and Calm reaction was .560. The

toward the teaser and needs for relationships

results of the factor analysis are shown in Table

with the teaser and reactions to teasing was2.

developed using Amos using the following
arge sprocedures. Firstly, multiple regression analysis

emotions/needs for relationships with thewas conducted with needs for relationships

teaser and reactions to teasing

with friends and needs for relatedness as

A correlation model of the target s emotions

exploratory variables and subscales of teasing

2.

Correla ion

model

of

he

Relationships and Teasing Reactions

7

Table 3: Correlation coefficients of variables used to construct the model
Trust/
Anxiety/ Indepen
stability worry
dence
Trust/
stability
Anxiety/
worry
Independence
Sense
of rivalry
Need
for mutual
respect
AcceptanceExaggerated
reactionsDissatisfied
reactionsCheerful
reactions
Calm reactions

Need
Sense
for
of rivalry mutual
respect

Exagger Dissatisf
Acceptan
Cheerful Calm
atediedce
reactions reactions
reactions reactions

―

.171*

.295**.161*.562**.331**.009.259**.453**.453**――.417**.333**

.003

.074

.184*

.364**.198*.299**

―

―

―

.056

.258**

.197*

.084

.249**.294**.277**

―

―

―

―

.069

.254**.090.287**.267**

.136

―

―

―

―

―

.269**.235**.096.372**

.192*

―

―

―

―

―

―

.293**.358**.720**.400**

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

.117

.220**

.007

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

.608**.549**

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

.660**

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

―

Values consist correlation coefficients, *p<.05, **p<.001

reactions as objective variables. Moreover,from a sense of rivalry,correlation analysis among variables wastrust/stability to Negative reactions as wellconducted (Table 3). Latent variables wereas paths fromanxiety/worry,

established based on the correlation coefficientsmutual respecttoamong reactions to teasing. A high positive

Exaggerated

reactions.

correlation

betweenrelationships between independent variables

Acceptance and Cheerful reactions (r=.720,

were examined based on the correlation

p<.01). Therefore, a latent variable named

coefficients, and paths from anxiety/worry topositive reaction was developed. On the othera sense of rivalry,

hand, a significant negative correlation wastrust/stability

indicatedmutualwas

between

Dissatisfied

indicatedCalm

reactionsreactions(r=-.54,andp<.01).

respect

trust/stability

independence, andneeds for

Positive reactions
Finally,

independence,and paths fromtoandcausalandneeds forindependence

andwere developed. Figure 1

Therefore, a latent variable named negative

shows the developed model. The goodness ofreaction

was developed. Moreover, a low

fit of the model was as follows; GFI=.961,

positive correlation was indicated between

AGFI=.917, CFI=.980, RMSEA=.044, andAcceptanceExaggerated reactions

AIC=91.359. The values of GFI and AGFI

(r=.293, p<.001). Therefore, a path fromwere higher than .90, and the value of RMSEA

Exaggerated reactions to Positive reactions

was lower than .05, indicating that thewas established. Furthermore, the results ofgoodness of fit of the model was sufficiently

multiple regression analysis indicated paths

acceptable.

and

8

Koiwa et al.

Discussion

Cheerful

1. Communication behaviors of teasing

behaviors identified in the present study are

targets

similar to compliant reactions in Hayama and

The results of factor analysis indicated two

Sakurai (2010), and dissatisfied reactions

types of content aspects and four types ofcorrespond to emotionally expressive reactions

management aspects in the reactions of thein Hayama et al. (2010) because targets express

targets to teasing. The content of reactions wastheir unpleasant feelings toward teasers.

classified as

Rejection.

On the other hand, Calm reactions andAcceptance is a reaction that includes humor,

Exaggerated reactions were not indicated in thesuch asreacting to a jokereacting

previous study. Exaggerated reactions express

playfully.

Rejection is the reaction of not

the targets intention to actively react to teasers

accepting teasing and rejecting provocative

provocation, leading involvement in teasingwords.

communication.

The following types of reactions were

Exaggerated reactions included items related toindicated as management behaviors towards

gestures.

teasing; Exaggerated, Cheerful, Dissatisfied,maintaining conversations and relationships

and Calm reactions. A previous study on(Wakashima, 1996). Therefore, Exaggerated

teasing reported two types of reactions toreactions might be useful for maintaining ateasing; compliant reactions and emotionallyconversation. On the other hand, Calmstrong reactions (Hayama & Sakurai, 2010).

reactions imply gently reacting to the teasers

Acceptance

and

or

reactionsGesturesamong

Moreover,haveamanagement

items

of

function

Figure 1. Correlation model among targets emotions/needs for the relationship with teasers andreactions to teasing(Values are standardizing coefficients.)ofRelationships and Teasing Reactions

9

provocations in the usual way, which is thethat communication to restore a relationship is

opposite of the management communication ofundertaken when the relationship becomesExaggerated reactions.

distant (Ikuta, 1999; Sugawara & Ikuta, 2001).

Based on the above, it might be possible toAlso, the target might try to restore aperceive interactive relationships between a

relationshipteaser and a target by focusing on thepositive reactions when the target is not suremanagement aspect of communication using

about the relationship with the teaser.

bymakingexaggerated

andteasing.
3. Factors affecting adverse reactions in
2. Factors affecting positive reactions intargets of teasing

targets of teasing

Adverse reactions to teasing mean showing

It was indicated that reactions in targets ofdissatisfaction with a bad mood, suggesting theteasing could be classified into two types;

target s intention to try to prevent the teasing. It

positiveandreactions

was suggested that adverse reactions to teasing

includeacceptingCheerful

were affected by emotions towards the teaser.

negative.

Positive

teasingwith

associated with Exaggerated reactions.

Independence

It was suggested that Positive reactions toadverse reactions, suggesting that a target s

teasing were affected by emotions toward thenegative attitudes toward teasing might beteaser and the need for the relationship with the

suppressed when the target trusted the teaser,teaser. Needs for mutual respect had a positive

and they had an independent relationship.

effect on positive reactions, suggesting that

Teasing is regarded as meta-communication

when a target wants to maintain a relationshipfrom the perspective of the pragmatics ofof mutual respect with the teaser, they tended tocommunication,

makerelationshipExaggerated

orPositivereactions.

andtrust/stability

reducedwhich is related to thebetweenthecommunicators

Moreover, gestures included in Exaggerated(Watzlawick. et al., 1967). When a target hasreactionsthefavorable feelings toward a teaser, the target

psychological distance between interlocutors isread a friendly meta-message from the teaser

short (Wakashima, 1997). Gestures may haveand may reject the teasing less often.

been expressed based on an existing goodAnxiety and worry might have a positive

relationship, in which the need for mutual

correlation with negative reactions to teasing,respect can be held.

suggesting that a target tries to stop the teasing

On the other hand, anxiety and worry had awhenpositive correlation with Positive reactions.

relationship with a teaser. Digital and analog

Exaggerated and Positive reactions might bemodalities are inconsistent in communication

made even when having anxiety about theby teasing, and a target interprets one with therelationship with the teaser. It has been reported

other, which is affected by the target s

are

often

made

when

the

targetisanxious

about

the

10

Koiwa et al.

recognition (Watzlawick. et al., 1967). When acommunication having a specific pattern.

target is anxious, he/she tends to interpret

Exaggerated reactions express the target s

teasing as an attack, which results in negative

intention to excessively react to the teaser s

attitudes about teasing. Moreover, the sense of

provocation, leading to involvement in teasing

rivalry has a positive correlation with adverse

communication. The results of this study

reactions, suggesting that when a target regards

indicated that exaggerated reactions are madea teaser as a rival, the target tries to stop thewhen a target is anxious about the relationshipteasing. Teasing is an expression of a sense ofwith the teaser. When the target is not suresuperiority (Ueno, 1992). Therefore, in teasing

about the relationship with the teaser and wants

communication, a person regards the self as

to resolve the anxiety, he/she reacts to teasing

having a higher status than the other. The sense

in an exaggerated manner, which maintainsof rivalry is the desire of a person to increaseteasing communication, producing a vicious

his or her status in relation to another person.

cycle between the teaser and the target. It might

Therefore, if targets have a sense of rivalry withbe useful to use calm reactions, which isteasers, the targets might try to maintain theiropposite to exaggerated reactions, to break thestatus by rejecting teasing.

vicious cycle. In other words, to suggest to atarget always suffering from teasing that he/she

4. Suggestions to clinical settings

should react in a gentle way, as usual, might

Applying the results of the present study tofunction as

daily communication with friends would enable

essential to attend to a targets emotions towardpredicting emotions and needs of a target

teasers and needs for relationships with theperson by the teaser or a third person looking atteasers to provide Do different interventions

the teasing situation. Even when a target makes

in brief therapy.

positivereactions,

if

the

reactions

Doing different.

It is alsoareexaggerated, the target might be anxious about

Conclusions

the teaser. Moreover, the sense of rivalry of theTeasing reactions are affected by the targets

target with the teaser could be elucidated fromemotions and needs for maintaining thethe target s negative responses. Therefore,

relationships with the teasers. When targets

reactions to teasing might be appropriate forhave favorable feelings towards a teaser, theyassessing relationships between friends.

tend to show positive reactions. On the otherInfamilytherapy

hand, when targets have a sense of rivalry withinterventions consideres it essential to conduct

teasers, they tend to show adverse reactions tointerventionsofteasing. Moreover, when targets have anxiety

communication (Hasegawa, 1997; Hanada,

about the relationships with teasers, they tend2003).

thatto show exaggerated reactions to shorten thecause

psychological distance. On the other hand,Theexaggerated

therapy
for

and

brief

specificpresent
reactionspatterns

study suggests
tend

to

Relationships and Teasing Reactions

11

when targets have anxiety, they sometimes

Kansai University, 39 No.3, 1-16. [inshow adverse reactions. In the future, factors

Japanese]

determining

targetsreactionsshouldbe

Enomoto, J. (1999). Seinenki ni okeru y jin

examined in more detail.

tono katsudou to y jin ni taisuru kanjou no

The present study conducted a questionnaire

hattatsuteki

henka

survey with university students about their

Developmentofrelationships with an assumed friend. In the

Adolescents: Activities with Friends andfuture, unconscious reactions to teasing inFeelings for Friends]. Japanese Journal of

actual communication settings should be

Educational Psychology, 47, 180-190. [ inexamined. Moreover, a survey on different age

Japanese][Socio-Emotional
FriendshipAmonggroups should be conducted because teasing

Enomoto, J. (2000). Seinenki no y jin kankei nitends to become a problem in junior and seniorokeru yokkyu to kanjou/katsudou tonohigh school students. Furthermore, the quality

kankei [Friendship Among Adolescents:of teasing should be examined because the

Needs and Their Reaction to Emotions andreaction might differ based on the teasers

Actives]. Japanese Journal of Educational

method of teasing and the content of teasing.

Psychology, 48, 444-453. [ in Japanese ]Hasegawa,

K,(1997).

Note:

paradokkusu-gyakusetsu

This paper is a revised version of a special[Paradox

research thesis (2018) submitted to the Course

constructivism].

of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Humanities

Japanese ]and Social Sciences, Iwate University. We

in

Kazokunai

tokousei-shugi

family-Paradox
Saiko

shobo.

and[in

Hanada, R. (2003). Kattouteki ishikettei bamen

would like to express our sincere gratitude for

ni

okeru

kaiwa

sutairunikansuru

those that participated in the survey.

goyouronteki kenkyu [Pragmatic Research
about Conversational Style in Conflictive

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Koiwa et al.

ikari wo kanjita bamen ni okeru kikite nobamen no ukete no komyunikēshon koudou

hannou wo kitei suru youin no kentou-kyohi

no bunrui-negateibu/pojiteibu kanjouseiki ni

ni taisuru kanjusei, hanashite tono kankeisei,

kansuru

sh i no hannou ni ch moku shite [Rejection

communication behaviors of the targets in

Sensitivity andthe situation of teasing: Focused on

Situational

Factorsaskentou[Classifying

Determinants of Listeners

Reactions topositive/negative

Aversive

JournalofFoundation of Brief Therapy the 9th

Educational Psychology, 58, 393-403. [ inConference (Fukuoka, Japan), Supplement,

Japanese]

pp.16. [ in Japanese]

Jokes].

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Ikuta, M (1999). Kattou bamen ni okeru

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Self-Regulatory of Facial Expression in

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Conflict Discourse Situation, Japanese
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32,

No.2,

gouikeiseiwomokutekikomyunikēshon

157-162. [ in Japanese ]Kasahara

Okuno. M, (2013). Senmonka ga mochiiru
ni

to

shita
kansuruH&

Shimatani,M(2012).

rinshou-shinrigaku-teki kenkyu [A clinicalCh gakuseinoshinwayokkyuoyobi

psychology study on communication aiming

y jin

tono

to build consensus used by specialists].

tai-y jinfuankanjou

gatsukiaikata ni oyobosu eikyou [Friendship

Nakanishiya Shuppan. [ in Japanese]among junior high school students: theSugawara, K & Ikuta, M. (2001). Giman bamen

relation between need for affiliation andni okeru manējimento-teki komyunikēshon

anxiety friendship]. Annual Bulletin ofno kentou [Management Communication

Institute of Psychological Studies, Showain Deception]. Japanese Journal of Family

Women s University, 14, 69-78.

Psychology, 15, No.1, 1-12. [ in Japanese][ inJapanese ]Thompson, J, K., Coovert, M., & Stormer. M.

Keltner D., Lisa Capps, Ann M. Kring, Randall(1999). Body image, social compassion, andC. Young, and Erin A. Heerey (2001). Justeating disturbance: A covariance structureteasing: A conceptual analysis and empiricalmodeling

review, Psychological Bulletin 1

Journal of Eating Disorders 26(1), 43-51.

27(2),

229-248.
Keltner D., Young R.C., Heerey E.A., Oemig C.

investigation,

International

Ueno Y. (1992). Y moa genshou ni kansuru
shokenkyu to y moa no bunrui ni tsuite& Monarch N.D. (1998). Teasing in[Studies

hierarchical and intimate relations, Journal

Classification of Humor]. Japanese Journalof Personality and Social Psychology, 75(5),of Social Psychology, 7, No2, 112-120. [ in1231-47

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Koiwa K., & Okuno, M, (2017). Karakai

Wakashima,

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phenomenon

andSougosayou-tekiRelationships and Teasing Reactions

jesuchānokakushou-sougosayou-teki

jesuchā to kazoku ryouhou no kankeisei ni
tsuite [The Confirmation of Interactive
Gestures-The

RelationshipbetweenInteractive Gestures and Family Therapy].
Japanese Journal of Family Psychology, 10,No.2, 91-103. [in Japanese]
Wakashima,

K.

(1997).

Hi-gengoteki

manējimento komyunikēshon to taiwashakannokankeisei

noninshikinoeikyou-kazoku shisutemu ni okeru dainiji
henka

wo

Management

motomete[Nonverbal

Communications and the

Influence of Relational Recognition among
Interlocutors: In Search of Second-order
Change in the Family System, Japanese
Journal of Counseling, 30, 227-233. [ inJapanese]
Watzlawick, P., Beavelas, J., & Jackson, D. D.
(1967)

Pragmatics

of

human

communication: A study of interactional
patterns, pathologies, and paradoxes. NY:
W. W. Norton.

13

International Journal of Brief Therapy and Family Science2020 Vol. 10, No.2, 14-21< Short Case Report >Brief Coaching for Supporting Transitions in Employment
Naoto Nihonmatsu 1) Taku Hiraizumi2) Gen Takagi2) Kazuma Sakamoto1) Ayana Ishitobi1)
1) Graduate School of Education, Faculty of Education, Tohoku University
2) Faculty of General Welfare, Tohoku Fukushi University

ABSTRACT.

Recently, the need for psychological support for users of employment support services having mental healthproblems has been increasing in employment support settings. Users are expected to make an effort to find employment within thelimited period of two years by facing up to their disabilities and repeated failures in training. The types of psychological support thatare possible and useful for these users have not been fully examined to date. Four case studies of using brief, practical coaching in
employment transition support settings are reported, and the effectiveness of brief coaching is examined. Compared with general
counseling in counseling rooms, psychological support for employment transition has the following characteristics; (1) Clients mustbe supported during a limited period. (2) Support is provided in a rather non-structured environment, with other users around theclient. (3) Supporters are required to simultaneously play a dual role: as an employment instructor and as a psychological supporter.
It was suggested that brief coaching using a solution-focused approach might be useful under such a structure for providing support.
KEY WORDS:

Employment Transition Support, Brief Coaching

Introduction and objectives

transition support services. Therefore, theThe employment transition support project isnumber of users of employment transition

one of the services provided for disabled people

support offices seeking a job while sufferingin Japan, based on the Act for Supporting thefrom depression or developmental disorders is

Independence of Persons with Disabilities (nowincreasing (the Ministry of Health, Labor andServices and Supports for Persons with

Welfare, 2017). Such users are trying to acquire

Disabilities Act) that was enforced in 2006.

skills by facing up to their disabilities andOne of the goals of employment transition

repeated failures to find employment. Providing

support is developing a society where

psychological support for these users while

disabled people can work. The Partial Revision

looking for work is an important consideration.

of the Act for Supporting the Independence ofvisited a mental clinic secretly from his parents.

Persons with Disabilities (2010) stipulated thatdevelopmental disorders are considered as

Characteristics of psychological support for

disorders, and people with developmental

transitions in employment

disorders have become able to use employment

Psychologicalsupportin

employment

Nihonmatsu

transition support settings has the following

Graduate School of Education, Faculty of Education, Tohoku

three characteristics, compared with general

University, 27-1, Kawauchi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi,

counseling in the counseling room. Firstly,

980-8576, JAPAN

there is a time limit to use the support. In

e-mail: Naoto.nihonmatsu@gmail.com

principle, the period during which clients can

CORRESPONDENCE

TO:

Naoto

14

15

Nihonmatsu et al

use the support service is determined as twoof psychological support that are possible andyears. Within the period, users need to acquire

effective have remained unclear to date. In theskills for employment and do job hunting. The

field of employment transition support, or,limitation of time might make both users andIndividual Placement and Support (IPS) in

supporters frustrated because they want toforeign countries, the effects and practice ofchange from the current condition but cannot

cognitive-behavioral

change, which makes them have a sense of guilt.

reported (Boycott, & McMurran, 2010; Ikeda,

Such frustration and a sense of guilt sometimes

Morichita, Mogi, Nakai, Izawa, 2012; Reme,cause a vicious circle and inhibit the process of

Grasdal, Løvvik, Lie, & Øverland, 2015).

employment. Secondly, this type of support has

However, few cases have been reported about

nonstructural characteristics. At employment

psychological support to date.

transition

supportoffices,

interviews

therapy

have

been

are

conducted like chatting in the shared space

Brief coaching in employment transition

where other users exist. Therefore, users'

supportmotivation for consultation is diversified, andThis study focused on the usefulness ofsome users are reluctant to talk about theirbrief

problems. Thirdly, supporters are required tosupport. Coaching is to facilitate learning,

play

an

development, and changes in the clients, as well

employment instructor and a psychologicalas to help them achieve their goals (O'Connor, J.

supporter. Supporters are expected to reduce& Lages, A., 2009). Brief coaching is anusers' frustration and guilty feelings andapplication of brief therapy, one of theencourage users to make efforts to get a job,

psychological therapies, to coaching (Berg &which is very difficult. When supporters

Szabo,

analyze the cause of users' problems and give

Hasegawa, 2007). One of the approaches ofadvice, sometimes users' frustration and guilty

brief therapy is the solution-focused approach,feelings are increased. To interact with users bywhich explores exceptions to existing solutions

carefully listening to them with non-directive

and extends the virtuous circle (de Shazer, S.,

attitudes is useful for psychological support,

1985). A solution-focused approach has thewhereas it is difficult to play the role of anfollowing characteristics;

two

roles

simultaneously,asinstructor at the same time.
As

described

above,

coaching

2005;

in

employmenttranslationtransition

supervisedbyFirstly, solution talk is considered to besupportersareimportant in the solution-focused approach.

expected to provide psychological support to

Solution talk focuses on desirable conditions,users in the condition where time is limited,things that have already gone well, and theusers' motivation is diversified, it is difficult toctalk about users' problems, and multiple roles

proceeding with the interviews. Compared withare required of supporters. However, the types

c
b

a

a

a d
c

c

d ab

16

BRIEF COACHING FOR SUPPORTING TRANSITIONS IN EMPLOYMENT

and immaturity, solution talk makes users lessFour cases of brief, practical coaching using

frustrated and feel less guilt. Moreover, solution

a solution-focused approach at an employmenta,transition support office are reported below.

making it easier to conduct interviews when

These cases have been revised without

there are other people around the client.

changing the content. < > shows the therapist's

Through solution talk, users can develop clear,

(T )

d

c

well-formed

goals.

b

Moreover,isreached

are

a d

'

a

.

concreteconditions that must be achieved after thesolutionaidentified,

A: a man in his 30s

andachievable action-level goals are set up, such

Ac

a

d, I

b ca

trauma of my past relationships with women. I

that the degree of progress can be confirmed.

ca

a

. W

T a

d

Ishihara and Okazawa (2011) indicated thatabout his trauma, A indirectly told his

many users feel anxious and frustrated because

experience of being betrayed in his past

prospects after the limited period are unclear.

relationships. A seemed to be reluctant to talk

Therefore, Drawing well-formed goals anddirectly about his problem, so Th shifted tomaking them achievable and concrete action

solution talk and asked, <What type of person

goals will help to clarify the future and reducedanxiety and frustration. Moreover, setting

to become a person that would not be defeatedachievable action-level goals such that thebdegree of progress can be confirmed increasesof a silly question, but which time of the day

a

a

a

a

b c

a

?> A a
. T a

d, I
d, <T

a
ab

.

are you the most different from your ideal

Goals in brief coaching are small steps, andperson?> A replied, "From the evening tosmall changes are expected to lead tobefore going to bed. I feel depressed." Next, Th

significant changes (Berg & Szabo, 2005;

asked to establish a well-formed goal, <If you

translation supervised by Hasegawa, 2007).

could become the ideal person, how would you

Brief coaching is considered to be suitable foruse your time?> A seemed to be surprised,

employment transition support based on thethinking about it, and said, "I would go to

above considerations.

different places and would be helpful to many

This article reports four case studies in brief,

people. Or, I would visit Shinto sh. Tpractical coaching using the solution-focusedsaid, <I think it is a difficult question, so you

approach. These case studies were conducted atdan employment transition support office, andcome up with an idea, could you please act on it

the usefulness of brief coaching in supporting

just once, as if you have become the ideal

employment transition is discussed.

a

? Aa

a

a

d a

d

.W

a

, "I

interesting. I will try it." Two weeks later, Th
Case Studies

a

d, <H

?> A a

d, N

I

17

Nihonmatsu et al

making diagrams of my hobbies and methods

C: a man in his 50sof relaxing. The task you gave me last timemight be a task for the future, not and not for
.

C c

a

d, I

a d

the office these days. I think I cannot help that,considering my age. I have to buy a suit for job,I a

B: a man in his 20s
B c

a

c

saving m

d, I

a

b

d

d

d a d dI

. O c B ad b

c

c

a

a

d

d, a d

.T a

a c ,

. T a

I

d, <Haexperienced

lowmotivation

before?>

a

Y , b

I

bac

d,

C

motivation soon. Motivation and the feeling ofd, <Dresignation

because

of

age

are

in

the

have a big and unclear goal?> B answered,tug-of- a . T a

T a

ver

condition as a percentage?> C answered,

tried to subdivide the goal into smaller and"resignation is 70%, and motivation is 30%."ac

Th asked, <When do you think you can

b
ab

. T a

d, Ha

a ?> B a d, Y . I d c d dd, <Catake a shower first thing in the morning when I

increase motivation by 10%?> aiming tohave an event, such as a job meeting that makes

establish a well-formed goal. C answered,

da .

T

d

solution talk by focusin
a d

a d,

Y

d

W

I

B
a

d .

, C alked about thedividing the goal. However, you cannot do it

amnesia. Th wanted to engage in solution talk

a

, a d

a d, <I. B a d, Y
d

b

a

ab

anxiety of forgetting things in life because of

a

ad

M

b

d

c

a

a I

b

c

. T

a d

ac

d

a

a

d,

c a dc

d

a

d

I ca

d

a

a

c

bd

d

.

A

d

a d a d, N

d c a

.

c

a

. T

with your anxiety.>

a
a,

ab

a

I'

a

a

b

D: a man in his 20s

a dkeen awareness of goal setting.

b

D complain d, I ca
Iof To-Do list by programming while doing
. H a

d

d, <A e you satisfied with that?> C a d, M aImonth, B came to the office in a stableca I

said, <You are making a lot of effort to deal

doing computer work. I think I should displayad <H

Once I hid my amnesia at the workplace, butwork for several days, would understand it.> B
a d, II a. T a

developing a big goal and failing to achieve it?
B,

c , a d ahave you been dealing with anxiety?>. C

goals and maintain good performance than
I

C

ha

a

a

a da

c d d. I

c
b ca

ca

I
a

a ad
a

a. O

Monday mornings, D feels depressed, tries tocontact the office, but cannot. When he gets

18

BRIEF COACHING FOR SUPPORTING TRANSITIONS IN EMPLOYMENT

depressed on Mondays, the feeling continues

supporters, among others. The cases reported infor a week, and he stays at home. Th asked,

this study also indicate problems caused by<How do you contact the office?> D answered,these characteristics; A was reluctant to talkB cabout his issues, B felt depressed when working

a

ac
a

LINE." Iacwith time limits, and C had low motivation forthem with LINE when I got depressed

getting a job because of resignation due to his

c

a

.

ca . b

T

I dd

a

d,

c

<H

about

age. Solution talk was conducted in each casecontacting them the day before, when you are

study, which had the following effects (1)feeling well?> D seemed a little uncomfortable.

a c , a d (2)Th said, <I suppose you want to lower the bar.
What do you think you should do?> to set up anacaba . D a d,athem realize their resources.

I might take weeks leave from tomorrow. Is it

problems (problem talk), but when Th shifted

a

a

b

A showed resistance to talking about his

ad

I ca

a

a

b ? T

I

c a

, <T ac .

to solution talk (<What type of person do you

The staff will understand you might come orwant to become?>), A started to communicate

not come. I will tell them to prepare for bothwith Th without showing any resistance.

cases.> D seemed to be relieved. Later, I asked

Clients can avoid facing their problems directly

D whether he could contact them with LINE orin the solution-focused approach by using

not. He seemed to have forgotten to LINE, but
he had continued to attend the office.

a ,

c

c

resistance (Corcoran, J., & Stephenson, M.,
2000). To talk about one's problems is to face

DiscussionThe

the issues, which burdens the clients. Moreover,usefulness

of

brief

coaching

inin employment transition support settings, there

employment transition support was examined

are often others around the client, which

through four case studies in which brief

c a

c

a c

a

ab

coaching was provided using a solution-focused

problems. Solution talk facilitates conducting

approach. The effects of solution talk, andinterviews relatively smoothly without causing

especially the effects of developing detailed

any resistance to the clients.

images of solutions and goals are discussed.

B experienced depression in dealing with
employment, which decreased his motivation

Effects of solution talk
Employment
characteristicsdand prevented him from working continuously.

transition
such

d

as

support
time

a

has

When Th encouraged him to recognize thelimitations,strategies he had already taken through solution,

talk, he realized his resources, increased his

conditions where it is difficult to talk about

motivation, and willingly made an effort to

c

c

b

,a d

d

. T

c

19

Nihonmatsu et al

self-criticism is reduced in the solution-focusedwork. This condition was caused by setting big

approach by using solution talk (Corcoran, J.,

and unclear goals. It is important to develop& Stephenson, M., 2000). Although it isachievable action-level goals in which theessential to know one's weak points andprogress can be established in brief therapy.

immaturity in the process of acquiring skills for

Setting such goals facilitates clients' prospects

employment, it is also important to know one's

for achieving the target efficiently. Then, whenstrong points and resources, to maintain thethe clients achieve the goal, they can attributeclient's self-esteem and motivation for work.

success to themselves (National Foundation of

Furman and Ahola (1994) suggested that one ofBrief Therapy, 2016). Although it is importantthe aims of solution talk is improving

to establish a big goal to define the final image

cooperation in conversations and providing aof the solution, when users cannot recognize

positive experience that helps clients maintainsmall and desirable changes, they feel helpless,their self-

resistance iswhich lowers their motivation. By establishingminimized through cooperative dialogues whenachievable small goals together with big goals,

using solution talk, and clients become able tousers can develop small, desirable changes andrecall positive experiences and improve

maintain their motivation.

. Tcmotivation for problem-solving.

A was reluctant to talk about his problems,and it was difficult for Th to explore the causes

Effects of developing a concrete image ofof A's problems. However, by asking <If you

solutions and goals

could become the ideal person, how do you use

Ishihara and Okazawa (2011) indicated thatthe time?>, Th and A could have a conversation

many users of employment transition supportand design a detailed solution image and a goal,

offices feel anxiety and frustration because

and A found guidelines for his activities byprospects after the limited period (two years)

himself. Clients can develop guidelines for goal

are unclear. The users of the case studies

achievement without facing their problems

reported here felt resigned, or had decreased

through developing a concrete image of amotivation because they did not have any

solution and establishing a goal throughemployment prospects, or could not develop

solution talk. Therefore, supporters can play the

coping strategies for their problems. The

role of an instructor without imposing afollowing issues in developing a concrete

psychological burden on users.

image of solution and goals are suggested bySometimes intervention tasks andthe case studies discussed here: (1) increasing

suggestions for employment support are givenaa d (2) b adfor goal achievement without facing problems.
B was feelingbd a d dd

what to do, which lowered his motivation for

to users following the guidelines that wereobtained. However, the Th's tasks andrecommendations are not always accepted andpracticed by users. However, developing

20

BRIEF COACHING FOR SUPPORTING TRANSITIONS IN EMPLOYMENT

concrete images of solutions and goals could

for Lasting Solutions. New York: W. W.

give them a clue. A, B, and D did not practice

Norton.

the tasks proposed by Th. However, they

Hasegawa. K. (2007). Introduction todeveloped coping strategies by themselves

Brief Coaching by Insoo Kim Berg.

based on clues provided by Th and began

Sogensha. [in Japanese]

executing the strategy. Wakashima (2016)

Boycott,

Translation

N.,

&
of

supervised

McMurran,
a

M.

by

(2010).

indicated that changes could be often observed

Evaluation

cognitive-behavioral

just as a result of receiving a task from theintervention

therapist, even if the clients did not conduct theplacement and support. Mental Health andtask. When giving tasks and suggestions toSocial Inclusion, 20(2), 119-125.

augmenting

individual

clients as an intervention, it is crucial to focus

Corcoran, J., & Stephenson, M. (2000). The

on whether the clients can utilize the clue, andeffectiveness of solution-focused therapy

Th should provide feedback to the clients.

with

child

behavior

problems:A

preliminary report. Families in Society,Conclusion
The

81(5), 468-474.

usefulness

of

brief

coaching

inemployment transition support was examined.
Brief

coaching

Fisch, R., Weakland, J. H., & Segal, L. (1982).

approach might be useful to solve problems in

The tactics of change: Doing therapy

supporting transitions in employment. These

briefly. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

problems include time limitations, diversified

Furman, B., & Ahola, T. (1994). Solution talk.

,atherapy. New York: W. W. Norton.

solution-focused

a

using

De Shazer, S. (1985). Keys to solution in brief

w conditions where

In F. M. Hoyt (Ed.), Constructive therapies

it is difficult to talk about the clients' problems,(pp. 41 66). New York: Guilford Press.

and multiple roles required of supporters,

Ikeda. H., Morishita. Y., Mogi. S., Nakai. Y., &among others. The usefulness of brief coaching

Izawa.

was suggested from the perspective of solution

cognitive-behavioral

talk, especially designing detailed images of

employment support for people withsolutions and goals. In the reported case studies,

mentalpsychological support was provided for a shortpsychological education. Japanese Journal

period, such as a one-time interview. In theof Behavior Therapy. 38(1), 47-56. [infuture, long-term and indirect interactions inJapanese]brief coaching, including consultation with staff
members, should be examined.

S.

(2012).

disorders:

Effects
therapy

Using

SST

of
in
and

Ishihara. Y. & Okazawa. S. (2011). Practical
study on employment support for disabled
persons at multifunctional

References

offices-Development and application ofBerg, I. K., & Szabo, P. (2005). Brief Coaching

employment transition support for21

Nihonmatsu et aldisabled persons. Bulletin of the Integrated

Special thanks to Mr. Mamoru Okazaki, Ms.

Research Center for Educational Practice,

Wakako Ashihara & Mr. Atsushi Monou of

Utsunomiya University. (34), 185-192. [inmanaby inc.

Japanese]
Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. (2017).
Teraoka. J. Department of Health andWelfare for Persons with Disabilities.
(July 8, 2018). Trends of employment
supportpoliciesfor

personswith

disabilities. Retrieved April 13, 2019. fromhttp://voccouncil.org/doc/teraoka170708.p
df. [in Japanese]
National Foundation of Brief Therapy. (2016).
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ac

a M d

(2015). H

Shuppan. [in Japanese]
O'Connor, J., & Lages, A. (2009). How
coaching works: The essential guide to thehistory and practice of effective coaching.
A&C Black.
Reme, S.E. Grasdal, A.L., Løvvik, C., Lie, S.A.,& Øverland, S. (2015). Work-focusedcognitive behavioral

therapyandindividual job support to increase work
participation in common mental disorders:a randomized controlled multicentre trial.
Occupational & Environmental Medicine,72(10), 745-752.
Wakashima. K., (2016). Chapter 4: What isBrief Therapy? Oka. M., Ikudta M., &Myouki.

H.(Eds.)Intersentionof

Psychological Therapy 2-Brief dynamic
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Brief

Therapy.

Shinyosha. [in Japanese]
Acknowledgements

pp55-71.

International Journal of Brief Therapy and Family Science2020 Vol. 10, No.2, 22-28< Short Case Report >Case study on rebuilding the marital relationship of an elderly couple facing a psychological crisis
Kyung-Ran Yu 1) Takahiro Kozuka 2) Takenori Yashiro 3)
1)

Faculty of Human and Cultural Sciences, Sakushin Gakuin University

2)

Graduate School of Education and Human Development, Nagoya University

3)

Tochigi Prefecture Northern District Child Guidance Center

ABSTRACT. The processes of interviewing a woman in her 60s, who was attending a hospital and diagnosed with anxiety anddelusional disorder, and her husband, is reported. The wife suspected her husband in his 70s of infidelity. Five joint interviews wereconducted with the couple. The woman was a housewife since her retirement. When she was at home alone, she became anxious
because she suspected her husband could be having an affair and questioned him in detail about his past relationships with women.
The husband denied having any illicit relationships, which did not convince her, and they often quarreled as a result. The therapist
focused on the communication patterns between the husband and the wife and intended to change the communication patterns anddevelop a new style of communication. Consequently, the wife gradually became calm, and her suspicions about her husband's
infidelity decreased. Moreover, she came to take the attitude of a mother trusted by her children, and the therapy concluded. This
article discusses the process of interviews and presents suggestions for interviews with senior couples in clinical settings.
KEY WORDS: senior couples, relationships, marital roles

parental roles because of their children’s
Introduction

independence. It is the period when the

Families experience a development process

meaningover time. Two grown-up people leave theirrelationships with the spouse is questioned

parents, make a new family, experience various(Carter & McGoldrick, 1980). This article

changes, and develop as a result. They mustdescribes the case study of an elderly couple

deal flexibly with changes, including childbirththat overcame a crisis and rebuilt their

and

and

relationship with each other. The involvement

retirement, among others. Dealing with suchof the therapist in a clinical psychology settingchanges might create a chance for family

is discussed.

growth,jobchange,transfers,ofcontinuing

marital life

anddevelopment or a family crisis. Notably, elderly
couples lose their occupational roles as a result

Case introductionof retirement and are required to choose new

A man in his 70s (Client; CL) and his wife insocial roles. Moreover, they become free fromher 60s (Identified as Patient; IP) consulted the

CORRESPONDENCE TO: Yu Faculty of Human andauthor. IP had suffered from delusional jealousy

Culturalfrom March, the year X - 3 and doubted that

Sciences,

SakushinGakuinUniversity,

908,

Takeshitamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-3295 JAPANher husband might be having an affair withe-mail: kyungran.yu@sakushin-u.ac.jp

another woman. She had visited a hospital but

22

223

Yu et alhad soon gave-up going there. In August, theMoreover, IP said, “My parents were doing ayear X - 2, she visited the clinic she wasfamily business and busy with work. I

currently attending and was diagnosed as

depended on my older brother and sister, so I

having an anxiety disorder as well as ahave a dependent personality. I was helping

delusional disorder. She was prescribed moodwith the family business since I was a juniorstabilizers

high school student and became acquainted

andantipsychotic

drugs.

Her

daughter recommended the CL to have

with

CL.

I

was

worried

about

CL’s

counseling. As a result, CL searched therelationships with women, but I got married toInternet and came to the counseling room in thehim because I counted on him. No otheruniversity where the first author is employed.

woman would marry him.”

The couple's chief complaints were as follows;

It seemed difficult for IP to talk about CL’s

the wife felt anxious and worried habitually. As

infidelity-related issues in front of him.

a result, she also attended psychosomatic

Therefore, the TH asked CL to leave the room

clinics. The CL wanted the therapist (TH) to

temporarily and shifted to an individual

listen to her and calm her. The CL and the IP

interview with IP. IP talked about the details of

were living together, their daughter’s family

her suspicions of CL’s infidelities from the time

lived in the neighborhood, and their son’s

they first met to the present. Moreover, IP

family lived in the neighboring prefecture. The

stated that when she complained about CL’s

psychological interviews were conducted by

infidelities to her daughter, the daughter got

the first author, who was the primary therapist,

emotional and told that she didn’t want to hearbased on the theory and methodology of Brief

about her parents’ marital problems. IP said that

& Family Therapy (Wakashima & Hasegawa,her daughter was rejecting IP’ visiting her2000).

daughter’s house.
After listening to IP’s story, the interview

The first session (July, the year X)

shifted again to a joint interview to listen to

IP started talking about CL’s personality, IP’s

CL’s opinions. CL stated, “I need to often

upbringing and her personality, the process ofinteract with female office workers because of

their marriage, and the CL’s alleged infidelity,

my job, which might have caused my wife’s

as soon as the interview started. IP said, “CLmisunderstanding. She complains about myseems to be kind to everyone, is good at work,

cheating every time she sees me. I tell her that I

caring, and relied on by people around him. He

don’t cheat on her, but she doesn’t trust me. I

is a good person. On the other hand, he tends towant her to trust me. Moreover, she questions

make a fool of me because of my childishness.

me about my behaviors with a woman 40 years

He is short-tempered and suddenly gets angry. I

ago, but I don't remember what I did, and I

have been enduring life with him until I was 60

don't know what to say. First, I listen to her

years old, but I can’t stand it anymore.”patiently, but when she repeats the same

3
24

Rebuilding the marital relationship in crisis

question over and over, I cannot contain myself

finish within the bearable 10 minutes, and theand start shouting, taking my anger out on

situation had not changed. IP said, “I want mythings, and sometimes we get into fights. Every

husband to interact with me in the same way as

day the same thing is repeated, and I'm

he interacts with female workers at the officeexhausted."

because he is a caring boss there. When he

After listening to CL, TH asked CL and IP,

stays with me, his attitude is superficial, and“How do you think your life will change if thethere is no heart. I stay at home during the day,allegedCL

and I have no one to talk to. I want him to talkanswered, “We will be able to live a happy,"

with me after dinner when we are watching TV

and IP said, "My anxiety will disappear, and I

together.”can live at ease and enjoy my life.” TH said,

concretely tell CL how to behave so that IP can“Both of you have the common goal offeel CL is interacting with her with love. IP said,

enjoying the rest of your life together,” and all“I want him to listen to me while looking at mypartied confirmed that the interviews would beface and eyes. I want to talk with him as a usual

conducted to achieve the common goal by TH,

couple, like in American movies, even for a

CL, and IP thinking together. IP seemed toshort time.”

become anxious and unstable when she tried to

The fact that they watched TV together after

stop talking about topics related to CL’s love

dinner indicated to TH that they could

affairs. When she faces CL in such ansometimes stay together without fighting. TH

emotional condition, she repeats the same story,

asked why they sometimes had quarrels andwhich makes CL irritated, starts fighting.

sometimes not. CL stated, “Usually, IP doesn’t

infidelity

woulddisappear?”TH suggested

that IP should

Therefore, TH suggested that (1) CL and IP

talk about my affairs. However, when watching

have a discussion and decide when IP can talkTV or something, certain scenes or music

about CL’s suspected cheating, during whichreminds her of my suspected affairs, whichtime CL would listen to IP as long as he cantriggers her anxiety. If my behaviors are evenendure it. (2) IP should write down what she

slightly different from her expectations, she is

can recall about CL’s suspected cheating anddissatisfied. I notice it because of the changes

tell about these him during the decided time.

in the way she talks and her tension. I am

CL and IP agreed with the tasks, and thealways careful so that her anxiety would not beinterview was concluded.

triggered.” Moreover, CL said that he mademuch effort to reduce IP’s anxiety and gain her

The second session (July, the year X)

trust, such as calling IP once in two hours

Firstly, TH inquired about the situation sinceduring work, recording the mileage every day,the last interview up to the present. CL

and dropping in at his house to have a lunch

informed that they attempted to do the tasks,that IP prepared, among others.

but IP's talk about CL's suspected affairs didn't

TH told IP that CL was making a lot of effort

425

Yu et alto gain IP’s trust and improve the marital

IP said, “I’m trying to not ask about yourrelationship, which is not easy, and asked her tosuspected affairs, but when I get anxious

express appreciation of CL. Moreover, TH told

becauseIP, “You can’t find a solution by talking about

questioning CL.” TH asked about the situations

whether he is having an affair or not. Both ofthat make her anxious. IP said, "I become

you just get exhausted. I want you to recognize

anxious when I'm alone. CL tried to decrease

CL’s current efforts, which doesn’t mean you

the time when I'm alone by calling me during

should forget the past.” IP said, “I don’t know

work and coming back home for lunch. He

how to trust CL. I want to trust him 100% andhelped me with shopping when I was busy withwant to feel relieved, but I’m afraid of trustingchild-rearing. However, he didn’t care for me

him 100%. I don’t know whether I should trust

mentally.”

him or not.” TH answered that recognizing
CL’s efforts would lead to trusting him.

ofsomething,I

cannotstop

TH asked them about a happy period during
their marital life to date. CL said, “I was told byFinally, TH gave CL and IP two tasks; (1)IP that she had never been happy during her

When CL feels a sign of IP’s anxiety or

marital life. IP reflects on life and repeatedly

dissatisfaction, CL should try to take action tocomplains, saying that she was not loved by me.

make her feel relieved, such as holding her

These days, I feel like I’m going to lose myhand. (2) IP wants to trust CL. Therefore, theymind.” TH said, “Both of you are at a period

should discuss what CL could do concretely towhere you have to reflect on your life to date.

make IP trust CL.

CL is still working, whereas IP has retired fromher work and has more free time. IP had been

The third session (August, the year X)

busy with child-rearing and work, so she did

IP looked bright when she talked about a day

not have time to think. However, she has time

trip during the Obon vacation. IP looked stable,

now, and therefore, IP might feel anxious when

whereas CL seemed a little tired. Suddenly, IP

alone. Objectively, your life seems successful

started to talk about a 36-year-old woman withbecause you are economically stable due towhom CL might be having an affair. At home,your efforts; your children have become

IP had questioned CL persistently as usual

independent and have families. However, IP

about his past and got into a fight, CL wasmight feel anxious when reflecting on her life. I

going to leave home, and IP stopped him. CL

think it is difficult, but both of you should lookasked IP with tears, “Why don’t you trust me? Iat each other objectively and see things fromhave not done anything that might embarrass

your partner’s standpoint.” This completed the

my son and daughter.” IP said, “You might besession.

lying to me, but if you swear by our childrenthat you are not cheating on me, you might betelling the truth,” and calmed down.

The fourth session (September, the year X)
TH asked about the situation from the last

Rebuilding the marital relationship in crisis

526interview to the present. IP said, “I have beenwith her friends for a change of mood and visits

calmed down in the last week.” CL said, “Forher sister-in-law to complain, which makes her

three weeks before the last week, IP questioned

calm. Moreover, IP boasted about her son’sme repeatedly about my affairs, I could notpartner and said, “I feel embarrassed in the eyes

stand it, and exploded with rage.” TH asked theof my children and grandchildren because wechange in the number of questioning by IP. CL

have such a bad relationship,” which suggested

said that it had decreased slightly.

that IP might have seen the relationships withIn the last session, IP said that she would
become calm because CL’s told that he would

CL from a higher perspective. TH praised theirefforts and finished the session.

swear by his children that he is not cheating on
IP. TH inquired about the situation after that. IP

The fifth session (October, the year X)

said she asked CL to write a signed a

IP said the times she went to the hospital last"promissory note to children” and showed amonth decreased from once in two weeks tophoto of it to TH. TH said, “It is written injust once a month, and her medication has also

good handwriting. I suppose you can trust thedecreased. Moreover, her doctor said, "You arewords.” When IP becomes anxious, she showed

getting better." Now, IP was more settled andthe document to CL and confirmed that she

had become able to do the housework that she

could trust him. TH asked, "Why do you feel

could not do before, such as cooking, cleaning,

relieved by looking at the document?" IPgardening, and taking care of the pet dog. IP

answered, "Because the children consider CL to

had been refusing to visit her daughter's house.

be a reliable father, and I think that such a

These days, IP was able to interact with herfather will not betray his children." They seem

daughter's family because of the improvement

to have made a promise to each other that (1) IPof her conditions. IP started to make plans towould try to stop talking about cheating-related

take lessons with her daughter. IP said, “I

topics as much as possible, (2) IP must stopsometimes feel anxious even now. However, I

repeating the topic, (3) although talking about it

think it is all right. I stopped talking about

just once is ok, no more, (4) when IP repeats

cheating with CL. I don’t care when I see

the topic three times, CL can warn IP.

scenes on TV or hear things that remind me of

It seemed that IP gradually tried tounderstandCL,

recognizing

cheating. I don’t want to show my disgracefulherbehaviors to my children, to my grandchildren,

misunderstanding of CL’s feelings and thoughts.

to my daughter in law, or to my son in law. I’m

IP seems to understand CL was considerate toembarrassed at having quarrels about cheating.”

IP because he called IP once every hour during

TH said that IP seems to have calmed down. IP

working, recording his mileage every day, andsaid, "It is because I have become able to trust

dropping in at his house to have lunch preparedmy husband. I think he has never cheated on

by IP. IP said she sometimes goes out for lunchme." TH asked, "Why do you think so?" IP27
6

Yu et alreplied, "Because of the note. I have copied it

increased.

and pasted it under the TV." TH asked,

At first, IP seemed to be anxious, restless,"Assuming that excellent health was 100%,and confused. At first, she kept on talking

what is the level of your present condition?” IP

without stopping when the CL’s suspected

and CL replied, “Almost 100%.”

infidelity was mentioned. On the other hand, IP

Although CL did speak any kind word to IP,

alsorecognized

that

she

might

be

he acted to gain IP’s trust. TH explained thatmisunderstanding the situation. Therefore, she“CL has a personality of showing his thoughts

didn’t refuse the introduction to counseling.

and feelings by attitudes, instead of putting

She often showed ambivalence, such as always

them into words. I think CL can dedicate

criticizing her husband but depending on him at

himself to his job with IP’s support. Therefore,

the same time. CL was a caring person and

CL is also supported by IP.” IP said, “I want torelied on by people around him at the

be a mother that my children can rely on.” The

workplace, whereas at home, he didn’t speakinterviews were concluded after a follow-up

much and left housework and child-rearing toperiod of three months.

his wife. CL had a modest attitude when the
couple came for the first consultation, and he

Discussion

wanted TH to listen to IP, instead of him. TH

This case study reports the process ofdiagnosed the cause of their problems as ainterviews conducted with an elderly couple

vicious circle caused by the daily interactions

facing a marital crisis caused by the wife’s

between the husband and wife, instead of as a

unreasonablehusband’s

wife that persistently questioned her husband

infidelity. Their psychological relationships

about suspected infidelity or a husband that had

were rebuilt by designing problem-solving

ignored his family. Therefore, to change thestrategies and recognizing their roles as a father

situation, TH provided joint interviews for theand a mother. The wife had been managing

couple.

everythingsuspicion

related

to

of

her

householdmatters,

The points that triggered changes in this case

supporting her husband, doing a job as well as

study are considered to be the following. Firstly,raising children, and sacrificing herself. She

a common goal was developed to improve their

had been putting up with her husband, who

motivation. The common goal in the firstthought little about his family. When she retired

session was to spend the rest of the life happily

from her job, she had much time to spend attogether by changing the current situation. This

home alone, and reflect on her life, and she

indicates the significance of joint interviews,

noticed past unsolved problems in their marital

which increased their motivation for interviews.

relationships. Moreover, she felt lonely because

Secondly, the communication patterns between

communication with her husband was wrong,

CL and IP were examined. The second session

although the time she spent with her husband

indicated that they had not always quarreledRebuilding the marital relationship in crisis

when they were together. Sometimes they

Framework for Family Therapy.

fought, but sometimes not. Considering theGardner.

differences between the two situations indicatedthefollowingviciouscirclein

theircommunication pattern.
IP: becomes anxious and emotional byrecalling CL’s infidelity, which is triggered bysomething. Then, CL feels that IP is getting
worried and becomes careful about what hesays and how he behaves. As a result, IP feels
something strange about CL’s attitude and gets
more and more suspicious and anxious. IP
questions CL persistently. CL is unable to stand
IP’s persistent questions and talks back, which
results in a fight.
TH intervened to cut off the vicious circle byrecommending CL to take action to relieve IP
when he felt any signs of IP’s anxiety. Thisbehavioral task led to CL’s remark that hewouldn’t do anything that might embarrass hischildren, which calmed IP. Moreover, it was
confirmed that recognizing CL as a father
trusted by his children created a feeling of
security and trust in CL. Furthermore, IP
herself thought she must change for the sake ofher children. It is considered that both husband
and wife again recognized their roles as a father
and a mother, leading to rebuilding the marital
relationship. It is suggested that the motivation
for change could develop from the desire tochange for the sake of someone, which could
become a significant chance to change.
Reference
Carter, E. A., & McGoldrick, M. (Eds.)(1980). The Family Life Cycle: A287

Wakashima, K. & Hasegawa, H. (2000).

Yoku wakaru tanki ryouhou gaido
bukku [Brief Therapy Guidebook].
Kongo Shuppan.