bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MARITAL THERAPY: QUALITIES OF COUPLES WHO FARE BETTER OR WORSE IN TREATMENT
Authors: Hampson Robert B. , Prince Catherine C. , Beavers W. Robert
Published: June 2007

To evaluate the effectiveness of couples therapy and determine the characteristics and qualities of couples who fare best in treatment, 139 couples presenting at a nonlaboratory sliding‐fee clinic in Dallas, Texas, were evaluated. Observational and self‐report measures of the Beavers Systems Model were taken at the first session and, for some subjects, at termination. Therapists also rated the couples on goal attainment and on dimensions of the therapeutic alliance. Not surprisingly, there was a direct association between number of sessions and goal attainment, with couples attending only one or two sessions having the lowest goal attainment. There were also significant family functioning qualities assoicated with success more competent couples fared better in therapy. Another consistent finding was that couples with no children did better in treatment than those who were also parents. It is interesting that remarried couples without children did best in treatment, followed by first‐married couples with no children, first‐married couples with children, and, finally, remarried couples with children. Implications for screening and clinical work with couples are presented.
FAMILY ADJUSTMENT FOLLOWING DISCLOSURE OF HOMOSEXUALITY BY A MEMBER: THEMES DISCERNED IN NARRATIVE ACCOUNTS
Authors: Beeler Jeff , DiProva Vicky
Published: June 2007

Disclosure of homosexuality by a family member frequently creates a crisis within the family. Previous research has focused primarily on families' response to this initial crisis and how they cope with and transform initial negative reactions. Little attention has been given to how families respond to disclosure over time and to how families integrate a gay or lesbian family member–and his or her relationships–once they have come to accept his or her homosexuality. Using a narrative approach and interviewing whole families, this project explores these questions. We present 12 themes we found consistently recurring in family members' narratives. We discuss the relationship between these themes and current models in the literature within the context of heterosexism and suggest that this approach may represent a first step in developing a model of successful adaptation subsequent to disclosure.
A FAMILY THERAPY INTERNSHIP IN A MULTIDISCIPLINARY HEALTHCARE SETTING: TRAINEES' AND SUPERVISOR'S REFLECTIONS
Authors: Gawinski Barbara A. , Edwards Todd M. , Speice Jenny
Published: June 2007

Family therapy doctoral students from American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy‐accredited programs are required to complete a full‐time clinical internship. The literature provides little information about these internship experiences. Two doctoral‐level marriage and family therapists summarize their professional and personal experiences in their internships located within a multidisciplinary healthcare setting. In addition, their supervisor reports on her experiences working with marriage and family therapy doctoral interns. We hope that this case report will stimulate all interns and their supervisors to provide feedback to their internship sites and graduate programs about their clinical training and the extent to which the programs prepared them for their marriage and family therapy careers in the larger health and mental community.
VIOLENCE OR DISCIPLINE? WORKING WITH MULTICULTURAL COURT‐ORDERED CLIENTS
Authors: Waldman Fanny
Published: June 2007

Therapists working with court‐ordered clients from cultures differing from the mainstream face challenging issues of compulsory therapy in the context of cultural diversity. This article reviews the literature on court‐ordered and multicultural counseling, highlighting central elements of both. It then suggests guidelines that blend these elements. The author illustrates how using these guidelines can enable therapists to engage these clients in the therapeutic process and focus on culture as the context for change.
SIBLINGS REVISITED: OLD CONFLICTS AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN LATER LIFE
Authors: Schulman Gerda L.
Published: June 2007

This article discusses and gives clinical examples of crises that occur among and affect adult siblings in later life. They may be related to normative changes or they may be conflicts that have an impact on the well‐being of the current family. Both are viewed as unique opportunities for resolution and reconciliation that can lead to a more realistic view of the past, and they may break an unfortunate cycle affecting future generations. Therapists are urged to be aware of and utilize these forces so that healing can take place.
BOOKS RECEIVED
Authors: Freedman Jill
Published: June 2007

McGoldrick, M., (Ed.). (1998). Re‐visioning family therapy: Race, culture, and gender in clinical practice.

Minuchin, P., Colapinto, J., & Minuchin, S. (1998). Working with families of the poor.

Tasker. F. L., & Golombok, S. (1997). Grouping up in a lesbian family: Effects on child developement.

Marsh, D., & Magee, R. (1998). Etbical and legal issues in professional practice with families.

Freeman, J., Epston, D., & Lobovitz, D. (1997). Playful approaches to serious problems.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PSYCHIATRISTS' COUPLE AND FAMILY THERAPY TRAINING EXPERIENCE AND THEIR SUBSEQUENT PRACTICE PROFILE
Authors: Guttman Herta A. , Feldman Ronald B. , Engelsmann Frank , Spector Liliane , Buonvino Michael
Published: June 2007

A 28‐item questionnaire was returned by 291 psychiatrists who bad completed training between 1962 and 1992. There were positive correlations between the amount of couple and family therapy training (CFTT) they received and the following: the extent to which graduate psychiatrists practice CFT; their involvement as supervisors, teachers, teaching program directors, or researchers; the extent to which they seek continuing education in CFT; their positive attitude toward CFT; and the extent to which they feel that their attitude to and interest in CFT has bad a positive effect on the milieu in which they practice and on their personal lives.
DESIGNING CONSTRUCTIVE THERAPIES IN COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH: POETICS AND MICROPOLITICS IN AND BEYOND THE CONSULTING ROOM
Authors: Pakman Marcelo
Published: June 2007

Old paint on canvas, as it ages, sometimes becomes transparent. When that happens it is possible, in some pictures, to see the original lines: a tree well show through a woman's dress, a child makes way for a dog, a large boat is no longer on an open sea. That is called pentimento because the painter “repented,” changed his mind. Perhaps it would be as well to say that the old conception, replaced by a later choice, is a way of seeing and then seeing again.
THE INTERACTION BETWEEN MARITAL STANDARDS AND COMMUNICATION PATTERNS: HOW DOES IT CONTRIBUTE TO MARITAL ADJUSTMENT?
Authors: Gordon Kristina Coop , Baucom Donald H. , Epstein Norman , Burnett Charles K. , Rankin Lynn A.
Published: June 2007

Couples' cognitions about marriage and their communication patterns have both been found to be highly associated with marital distress. To examine the relationships among marital cognitions, communication, and marital adjustment, we had a sample of 387 community couples complete three self‐report measures: the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, the Inventory of Specific Relationship Standards, and the Communication Patterns Questionnaire. Results indicated that the correlation of communication with marital adjustment is higher for women with more relationship‐focused standards than for women with less relationship‐focused standards; this interaction does not occur for men. The implications of the interaction and the gender difference as well as the importance of teaching communication skills, and working with associated cognitions are discussed.
RELATIONAL V‐CODE CONDITIONS IN A CHILD AND ADOLESCENT POPULATION DO WARRANT TREATMENT
Authors: Simola Sheldene K , Parker Kevin C. H. , Froese Arthur P.
Published: June 2007

It is often argued that relational V‐code conditions are less serious than classical psychiatric disorders, and that they should therefore receive lower clinical priority or diminished levels of treatment funding. Despite these common assertions, there have been virtually no studies that have used actual case data to evaluate whether such problems are in fact less serious and less worthy of treatment funding. We used actual case data from a universally funded child and family clinicto evaluate these questions. Results showed that both classical diagnoses and relational problems were singnificantly related to markers of clinical diagnoses and relational problems were significantly related to markers of clinical severity. As with previous research, family therapy was not differentially associated with a larger number of treatment sessions.
ARE GOALS AND TOPICS INFLUENCED BY GENDER AND MODALITY IN THE INITIAL MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY SESSION?
Authors: Werner‐Wilson Ronald Jay , Zimmerman Toni Schindler , Price Sharon J.
Published: June 2007

Establishment of a goal is crucial to therapy, but identification of therapeutic goals may be difficult in conjoint therapy because each participant may identify a different problem. We examined the influence of gender on ability to successfully introduce therapeutic topics in marital and family therapy by conducting two studies. The first study evaluates the ability of therapists to identify therapeutic goals that matched goals prioritized by both women and men clients on pretherapy questionnaires. The second study examines the process of initial therapy sessions to see whether gender influences a client's ability to introduce a therapeutic topic. Results suggest that therapeutic topic is influenced by the interaction of gender and treatment modality. Specifically, therapists were better able to match women's pretherapy stated goals in marital therapy than family therapy, men were more successful at introducing topics in family therapy, and women were more successful at introducing topics in marital therapy.
THE POWER EQUITY GUIDE: ATTENDING TO GENDER IN FAMILY THERAPY
Authors: Haddock Shelley A. , Zimmerman Toni Schindler , MacPhee David
Published: June 2007

In the past two decades, feminist scholars have challenged the field of family therapy to incorporate the organizing principle of gender in its theory, practice, and training. In this paper, we introduce a training, research, and therapeutic tool that provides guidance for addressing or observing gender and power differentials in the practic of family therapy. As a training tool, the Power Equity Guide helps trainees to translate their theoretical understanding of feminist principles into specific behaviors in therapy. Researchers and supervisors can use the Power Equity Guide to evaluate the practice of gender‐informed family therapy. We also provide specific suggestions for its use by trainers, supervisors, therapists, and researchers.
THE FIFTH HOLOCAUST DIALOGUE INTERACTIVE GROUP SESSION: LESSONS TO BE LEARNED
Authors: Kaslow Florence W.
Published: June 2007

This article describes the fifth Holocaust Dialogue Group meeting between descendants of both victims and perpetrators. This process began in 1994 and has continued into 1999. It is held in conjunction with the annual International Association of Family Therapy Conference. Those in attendance report that this process has facilitated their catharsis regarding long‐repressed issues and feelings of shame and guilt, enabled them to ask probing questions of relatives, and contributed to a profoundly desired healing. Repetitive themes that have emerged in the sessions are highlighted.
BOOK REVIEWS
Authors: Freedman Jill
Published: June 2007

Book reviewed in this article:

Deutsch, F. M. (1999). Halving it all: How equally shared parenting works.

Lusterman, D. D. (1998). Infidelity: A survival guide.

Bobes, T., & Rothman, B. (1998). The crowded bed: An effective framework for doing couple therapy.
BIRACIAL YOUTH AND FAMILIES IN THERAPY: ISSUES AND INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Milan Stephanie , Keiley Margaret K.
Published: June 2007

Empirical research and clinical resources focusing specifically on minority youth and families have increased tremendously in the last 2 decades. Despite this trend, certain groups continue to be relatively neglected. In particular, very few resources exist for understanding the unique challenges that often face biracial youth and their families. In this article, we use a nationally representative database to compare functioning in biracial youth to white adolescents and other minority adolescents. Results suggest that biracial/biethnic youth are a particularly vulnerable group in terms of self‐reported delinquency, school problems, internalizing symptoms, and self‐regard. As a group, they are also more likely to receive some form of psychological intervention. Given these findings and the shortcoming of clinical resources for work with this population, we provide an in‐depth discussion of why biracial youth may be particularly vulnerable from a social‐constructionist framework and offer several strategies based on narrative family therapy for working with biracial youngsters and their families.
INDIVIDUAL AND CROSSOVER EFFECTS OF STRESS ON ADJUSTMENT IN MEDICAL STUDENT MARRIAGES
Authors: Katz Jennifer , Monnier Jeannine , Libet Julian , Shaw Darlene , Beach Steven R. H.
Published: June 2007

High‐stress individuals may benefit from social support, although their support providers may be adversely affected via stress crossover effects. Individual and crossover effects of perceived stress within medical student marriages (n = 30) were investigated. Perceived spousal support was positively associated with individuals' own marital and emotional adjustment, attenuating stress effects. With regard to crossover effects, medical students' perceived stress was significantly associated with their spouses' emotional adjustment. Further, medical students' own emotional adjustment fully medicated this crossover effect. Results suggest that the contagion of negative affect may serve as key mechanism through which stress crossover effects operate in marriage.
FAMILY‐OF‐ORIGIN EXPRESSIVENESS: MEASUREMENT, MEANING, AND RELATIONSHIP TO ALEXITHYMIA
Authors: Yelsma Paul , Hovestadt Alan J. , Anderson William T. , Nilsson Johanna E.
Published: June 2007

The need for research instruments to assess the impact of affective expressiveness within the family is evident, yet few appear to be adequately designed for this purpose. In this article, we present two studies addressing this need. In the first study, the original 40‐item Family‐of‐Origin Scale was administered to 416 students to determine those items that constitute the factor structure. This instrument was designed to assess perceived levels of health in the family of origin but has unsubstantiated construct validity. Results from a confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the instrument has one major factor, and results from five other studies provide evidence supporting the construct validity. Face validity of this 22‐item construct indicates that it assesses an individual's perceived level of global expressive atmosphere within his or her family of origin. In the second study, the new Family‐of‐Origin Expressive Atmosphere Scale and the 20‐item Toronto Alexithymia Scale were administered to 295 students. Students' self‐reported expressive atmospheres in their family‐of‐origin scores were significantly correlated with the total scores of alexithymia and each of the three factors: impaired ability to identify feelings, impaired ability to describe feelings, and externally oriented thinking processes. No significant gender differences were found.
STRAIGHT THERAPISTS WORKING WITH LESBIANS AND GAYS IN FAMILY THERAPY
Authors: Bernstein Anne C.
Published: June 2007

This article uses a cultural literacy model to sensitize straight marital and family therapists (MFTs) to work with gays, lesbians, and their families. While most MFTs number gays and lesbians among their clients, differnces in sexual orientation between therapist and clients are often insufficiently addressed, closing off therapeutic possibilities. Marital and family therapists are asked to systematically assess homophobic and heterosexist assumptions in both personal attitudes and professional theory and practice and to educate themselves about gay culture and family life. The role of disclosure, trust, and collaborative meaning making in creating a therapeutic relationship that is culturally sensitive, clinically effective, and ethically responsible is examined.
HIERARCHICAL RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT: PARENTS AND CHILDREN
Authors: Fish Linda Stone
Published: June 2007

Child growth and development occur in hierarchical relationships. In our attempt to work more collaboratively, family therapists have neglected to work toward developing theory that guides our work in such hierarchical relationships. This article describes a method for understanding child and relational growth. It builds on Wynne's (1984) epigenetic model of relational systems by integrating his model of family development with Bateson's (1958) concepts of complementarity and symmetry. Wynne's model defines a process for understanding the stages of relationship development, and Bateson articulates the process of change within a relaionship. Utilizing principles from both theorists, this paper proposes that parent‐child complementary relationships mature through Wynne's developmental stages via symmetrical struggles, and that these symmetrical struggles are necessary ingredients in the development of the relationships as well as of the individuals within those relationships.
BOOK REVIEWS
Authors: Freedman Jill
Published: June 2007

Book reviewed in this article:

Olkin, R. (1999). What phychotherapists should know about disablity.

Almeda. R. V.(Ed.). (1998). Transformation of gender and race: Family and developmental perspectives.

Raser, J. (1999).Raising childeren you can live with: A guide for frustrated parents.
ADVANCES IN COACHING: FAMILY THERAPY WITH ONE PERSON
Authors: McGoldrick Monica , Carter Betty
Published: June 2007

This paper describes the process of “coaching” individuals in their efforts to change themselves in the context of their nuclear and parental family systems. Although this approach is regarded as one of the major modes of intervention in family therapy, the actual methods and techniques for intervention are not widely understood. Moreover, we have expanded the Bowen approach to address powerful cultural and family life cycle influences. The goal of coaching is to help clients define themselves proactively in relationship to others in their families without emotionally cutting off or giving in. Coaching begins by traing clients to become observers and researchers of their own role in the family and of family patterns of behavior. Coaching then moves to help them bring their behavior more in line with their deepest beliefs, even if this means upsetting family members by disobeying family “rules.”
EXAMINING MULTICULTURAL COUNSELING COMPETENCE AND RACE‐RELATED ATTITUDES AMONG WHITE MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPISTS
Authors: Constantine Madonna G. , Juby Heather L. , Liang Juily J‐C.
Published: June 2007

This study investigates the relative contributions of social desirability attitudes, previous number of multicultural counseling courses taken, and racism and White racial identity attitudes together in predicting marital and family therapists' self‐reported multicultural counseling competence. Results revealed that, when controlling for social desirability attitudes and the number of multicultural courses taken, racism and White racial identity attitudes in consort accounted for a significant amount of the variance in self‐perceived multicultural counseling competence. Implications for marital and family therapy training, practice, and research are discussed.
THERAPIST PERCEPTIONS OF ETHNICITY ISSUES IN FAMILY THERAPY: A QUALITATIVE INQUIRY
Authors: Nelson Kaye W. , Brendel Johnston M. , Mize Leslye K. , Lad Kaetlyn , Hancock Cecilia C. , Pinjala Anjali
Published: June 2007

A group of 29 leading family therapists presenting at a regional marriage and family therapy conference were interviewed about ethnicity issues in family therapy. Questions and discussin focused on ethnicity in the family therapy process ethnicity issues for the family therapist, ethnicity issues for the client family, therapeutic strategies when ethnicity is an issue, and recommendations for ethnicity training and supervision of future family therapists. Qualitative methods were used to analyze the transcripts of the recorded interviews to identify themes emerging from the interviews. Results reflect multiple perspectives and approaches in the field of family therapy.
COMMON FACTORS ACROSS THEORIES OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY: A MODIFIED DELPHI STUDY
Authors: Blow Adrian J. , Sprenkle Douglas H.
Published: June 2007

The Dezlphi methodolgy was used to explore common factors across theories of marriage and family therapy (MFT). Leading clinicians and researchers from the American Family Therapy Academy and select faculty members from MFT training programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation frorm Marriage and Family Therapy Education were asked to achieve consensus regarding common factors. Respondents were asked to report on commonalities across the various MFT theories, as well as what they personally considered to be the core ingredients of change. A final profile of items was created from the responses. Qualitative interviews were conducted with selected panelists to clarify discrepancies as well as to add meaning to the data. Implications for the training and practice of MFTs as well as direction for future research are discussed.
PRACTITIONER PROFILES AND PRACTICE PATTERNS FOR MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS IN UTAH
Authors: Nelson Thorana S. , Palmer Thane R.
Published: June 2007

This report presents the results of a survey of practitioner profiles and practice patterns for marriage and family therapists (MFTs) in Utah. A sample of 77 clinical members of the Utah Association for Marriage and Family Therapy provided descriptive information on their demographics, training, years of experience, and specific information about their practice of MFT. The findings indicate that clinical members of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy in Utah are a mostly male, white, and highly educated group of practitioners who hold primary licensure in MFT and identify themselves primarily as MFTs. Similarities and differences with practice patterns research in Minnesota and 15 other states are discussed.
BOOK REVIEWS
Authors: Harris Steven M.
Published: June 2007

Book reviewed in this article:

Titelman, P. (Ed.). (1998). Clinical applications of Bowen family systems theory.

Mogel, W. (2001). The blessing of a skinned knee: Using Jewish teachings to raise self‐reliant children.

McGuire, D. K., & McGuire, D. E. (2001). Linking parents to play therapy: A practical guide with applications, interventions, and case studies.

Higgins, G. O. (1994).Resilient adults: Overcoming a cruel past.

Christensen, A., & Jacobson, N. S. (2000).Reconciable differences.
THE CHALLENGES TO INTIMACY AND SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS FOR GAY MEN IN HIV SERODISCORDANT RELATIONSHIPS: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Palmer Robert , Bor Robert
Published: June 2007

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and disease progression create imbalance in long‐term, HIV‐serodiscordant, gay male relationships, particularly in sexual relations and issues of physical and emotional intimacy. Stage of disease progression and worldview of the couple both affect the relationship and its survival. To redress imbalance, partners employ a range of coping strategies and techniques. This article explores these issues in the context of HIV serodiscordant gay couples and how they preserve their relationships in the face of these unique challenges. For workers who provide psychotherapeutic and community support for people with HIV and for their partners, the results of this study may be helpful in recognizing stress factors for couples, and tailoring support services to the needs of both partners. Overall, this study provides a basis for further work examining the dynamics of serodiscordant relationships.
TEN ADAPTIVE STRATEGIES FOR FAMILY AND WORK BALANCE: ADVICE FROM SUCCESSFUL FAMILIES
Authors: Haddock Shelley A. , Zimmerman Toni Schindler , Ziemba Scott J. , Curent Lisa R.
Published: June 2007

Despite negative media images and social dynamics insensitive to the lives of many dual‐career couples, research shows that these families are largely healthy and thriving. In this study, we investigated the adaptive strategies of middle‐class, dual‐earner couples (N=47) with children that are successfully managing family and work. Guided by grounded‐theory methodology, analysis of interview data revealed that these successful couples structured their lives around 10 major strategies: Valuing family, striving for partnership, deriving meaning from work, maintaining work boundaries, focusing and producing at work, taking pride in dual earning, prioritizing family fun, living simply, making decisions proactively, and valuing time. Each adaptive strategy is defined and illustrated through the participants' own words. Clinical applications for therapists working with dual‐earner couples are offered.
BEYOND ENMESHMENT: EVIDENCE FOR THE INDEPENDENCE OF INTRUSIVENESS AND CLOSENESS‐CAREGIVING IN MARRIED COUPLES
Authors: Werner Paul D. , Green Robert‐Jay , Greenberg Joseph , Browne Timothy L. , McKenna Tricia E.
Published: June 2007

In a 1996 article on family theory, we (Green & Werner) proposed that family enmeshment should not be equated with high cohesion and that the construct of enmeshment fails to discriminate between two distinct relationship processes: Closeness‐caregiving and intrusiveness. In this study, our model of these two independent dimensions of family connectedness was tested by assessing spouses from 264 couples, using the california Inventory for Family Assessment (CIFA). The CIFA scales showed acceptable reliability. Significant interspouse validity correlations also were obtained. As predicted by our theory, factor analyses distinguished dimensions of intrusiveness (blurring of boundaries) from dimensions of closeness‐caregiving (such as warmth and nurturance). On all but two factors, behaviors of only one spouse (but not of both) had interpretable loadings. That is, in most areas, the two spouses' behaviors did not load together to form meaningful factors. The latter finding suggests that family systems theory‐with its central notion of reciprocally contingent behaviors between family members‐may be useful in understanding only a few dimensions of spouses' behavior (such as reciprocal aggression) whereas personality‐in‐context theories may be better for understanding most other dimensions (such as warmth and nurturance).
POSTMODERNISM IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY TRAINING: DOCTORAL STUDENTS' UNDERSTANDING AND EXPERIENCES
Authors: Wieling Elizabeth , Negretti Michael A. , Stokes Sean , Kimball Thomas , Christensen Faline Bateman , Bryan Laura
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study is to advance our understanding of how doctoral students perceive postmodernism's influence in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). According to the literature, postmodernism has had a profound impact on many fields, including MFT. However, tracking of how postmodernism is actually being rendered in theory, research, practice, and training warrants investigation. This study utilized focus group interviews to investigate the perceptions of MFT doctoral students. Findings suggest that while participants are attracted to postmodern tenets, they also report feeling a mixture of liberation and excitement with confusion and fear regarding how postmodernism is influencing MFT models of therapy.
DO WE REALLY UNDERSTAND? AN EXPERIENTIAL EXERCISE FOR TRAINING FAMILY THERAPISTS
Authors: Helmeke Karen B. , Prouty Anne M.
Published: June 2007

This paper presents an experiential exercise for training beginning marriage and family therapists, as well as several adaptations of the format. The basic exercise consists of role playing a therapy session in which the people playing the clients speak a language that is not understood by the therapist‐in‐training. Although the therapist cannot understand the clients, the clients can understand the therapist. This exercise assists students to become more cognizant of the need to be cautious and curious in the cocreation of meaning in therapy. In addition, this exercise builds confidence and clinical skills, such as learing about nonverbal communication while observing process.
FAMILY THERAPY SAVES THE PLANET: MESSIANIC TENDENCIES IN THE FAMILY SYSTEMS LITERATURE
Authors: Johnson Scott
Published: June 2007

It is not unusual occasionally to hear individual family therapists describe their work as an effort to “save the world.” The messianic notion that family therapy should be the world's salvation is not simply a fancy of individual clinicians, but is deeply imbedded in several of our field's most fundamental theories. This article explores messianic arguments in the work of some of family therapy's most important thinkers, including von Bertalanffy, Bateson, and Keeney, and then discusses the implications that these arguments have for the clinical and theoretical development of our field.
APPROACHES TO THIS STUDY OF GENDER IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY CURRICULA
Authors: Filkowski Melissa Brown , Storm Cheryl L. , York Charles D. , Brandon Antonius D.
Published: June 2007

This study compares two accredited marriage and family therapy programs: One includes a separate course on gender, and the other integrates gender throughout the curriculum. Students from the two programs rated their own and their peers' experience of how gender education effects therapy, program culture, and personal life. Results indicate that students from the integrated program view their peers as incorporating gender ideas in therapy to a significantly greater extent (t= 2.83, p < .05) than do students in the gender course program. However, students from the program that has a gender course leaned more toward agreement with feminist concepts than did students from the integrated program. Overall, students appear to be learning about gender and integrating these concepts into their work as therapists. Discussion is included on how to choose a gender curriculum.
BOOK REVIEWS
Authors: Harris Steven M. , Freedman Jill
Published: June 2007

Book reviewed in this article:

Boyd‐Frankolin, N., & Bry, B. (2000). Reaching out in family therapy: Home‐based, school, and community interventions.

Boyd‐Franklin, N., Franklin, A. J., & Toussaint, P. (2000). Boys into men: Raising our African American teenage sons.

Reiss, D., Neiderhiser, J. M., Hetherington, E. M., & Plomin, R. (2000). The relationship code: Deciphering genetic and social influences on adolescent development.

Herdt, G. & Koff, B. (2000). Something to tell you.

Nichols, M. P. (1999). Inside family therapy: A case study in family healing.
USING EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING TO ENHANCE TREATMENT OF COUPLES
Authors: Protinsky Howard , Sparks Jennifer , Flemke Kimberly
Published: June 2007

Eye Movement Desenitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as a clinical technique may enhance treatment effectiveness when applied within a couple therapy approach that is emotionally and experientially oriented. Clinical experience indicates that EMDR‐based interventions are useful for accessing, activating, tolerating, and reprocessing the intense emotions that often fuel dysfunctional couple, interactions. Using EMDR within conjoint to reprocess negative emotions can amplify intimacy, increase connection, and subsequently lead to a change in problematic relationship patterns.
PULLING ON THE HEART STRINGS: AN EMOTIONALLY FOCUSED APPROACH TO FAMILY LIFE CYCLE TRANSITIONS
Authors: Dankoski Mary E.
Published: June 2007

Transitions through the family life cycle can be stressful because they challenge attachment bonds between family members. Open communication and the processing of primary attachment emotions are crucial when family systems change. When family members are insecurely attached, such open communication is difficult, and people tend to get stuck in absorbing states of secondary defensive affect. Emotionally facused therapy (EFT) can be particularly helpful by encouraging family members to express primary emotions. This expression than fosters renegotiation of bonds and the clarification of attachment needs and concerns. Case examples illustrate how EFT can be applied to each family life cycle stage.
PATTERNS OF CHANGE IN FAMILY‐BASED AGGRESSION PREVENTION
Authors: Hanish Laura D. , Tolan Patrick H.
Published: June 2007

Patterns of change on three intervention targets were examined in 151 families that participated in a family intervention designed to reduce and prevent children's aggressive behavior. Measures of parents' alliance and parenting skils and children's aggressive behavior were obtained at five times during the intervention. Three cluster analyses were conducted to identify patterns of change on each target. Linear and nonlinear patterns of improvement as well as two distinct patterns of no change were obtained. The patterns were differentiated by net improvement, overall level of skill, and trajectory of change. Family characteristics also differentiated the patterns and relations were found among patterns across intervention targets. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
GAPS BETWEEN MFT SUPERVISION ASUMPTIONS AND COMMON PRACTICE: SUGGESTED BEST PRACTICES
Authors: Storm Chery L. , Todd Thomas C. , Sprenkle Douglas H. , Morgan Michael M.
Published: June 2007

This article summarizes gaps between assumptions that appear in the literature, research, and accepted standards for marital and family therapy (MFT) Supervision, and the common practice of supervisors. Issues that stem from these are highlighted and recommendations are made for closing them. In an effort to refine the standard of practice for MFT supervision, best practice recommendations are offered for MFT supervision
A STUDY OF LIVE SUPERVISORY PHONE‐INS IN COLLABORATIVE FAMILY THERAPY: CORRELATES OF CLIENT COOPERATION
Authors: Moorhouse Adele , Carr Alan
Published: June 2007

The behavior of five supervisors, 19 trainee family therapists, and 20 clients before, during, and after 88 live supervisory phone‐in events was examined in this study to determine the correlates of client cooperation. Following supervisory phone‐in conversations, client cooperation was associated exclusively with the presence and quality of the collaborative behavior shown by the therapist. Isomorphism between the behavior of the supervisor and therapist was not associated with subsequent client cooperation, nor was any particular category of supervisor behavior. Surprisingly, isomorphism between the quality of supervisor and therapist behavior preceded those events where client resistance occurred.
QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN FAMILY THERAPY: A SUBSTANTIVE AND METHODOLOGICAL REVIEW
Authors: Gehart Diane R. , Ratliff Dan A. , Lyle Randall R.
Published: June 2007

Over the last decade, marriage and family therapy (MFT) researchers have developed a growing interest in qualitative research. In this article, we review substantive and methodological trends in the published qualitative studies within the MFT field. The research is compared and contrasted in the following areas: General topic, epistemological theory, methodological theory, sampling and sample, data collection, data analysis procedure, and approach to reliability and validity. We also provide recommendations for future research.
FAMILY THERAPISTS' ETHICAL DECISION‐MAKING PROCESSES IN TWO DUTY‐TO‐WARN SITUATIONS
Authors: Burkemper Ellen M.
Published: June 2007

This quantitative study investigated the ethical decision‐making process of 177 Missouri members of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy using two in‐session duty‐to‐warn scenarios of child abuse and HIV transmission. The components of the critical‐evaluative level of ethical decision making include the lower‐level decision components of personal/therapeutic response, professional ethics, and legal considerations/laws of the State, and the components of the higher‐level decision base, the meta‐ethical principles, which are nonmaleficence, autonomy, beneficence, fidelity, and justice. Statistical results indicated that in the child abuse scenario, professional ethics and legal considerations/laws of the State were considered most important, whereas in the HIV scenario, professional ethics were the preferred lower‐level decision base. Across scenarios, the preferred higher‐level decision base was nonmaleficence. There were differences across the child abuse and HIV scenarios in the perceived significance of the remaining lower‐level decision base items as well as differences in perceived significance and ordering of the remaining meta‐ethical principles. Limitations are discussed.
CHARACTERISTICS OF EFFECTIVE PROVIDERS OF MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY IN RURAL MENTAL HEALTH SETTINGS
Authors: Hovestadt Alan J. , Fenell David L. , Canfield Brian S.
Published: June 2007

Characteristics of effective providers of marital and family therapy (MFT) in rural mental health settings were investigated. The survey sample included 74 members of the National Association for Rural Mental Health who, through a modified Delphi process, created a composite picture of effective MFT providers. The findings yielded six major rank‐ordered characteristics of effective MFT providers in rural mental health settings, with effective skills in MFT ranked first. Rural community understanding, appreciation, and participation ranked second. Specific competencies contributing to each major characteristic were also identified and are discussed. Recommendations for use of this information are provided.
EMOTIONALLY FOCUSED INTERVENTIONS FOR COUPLES WITH CHRONICALLY ILL CHILDREN: A 2‐YEAR FOLLOW‐UP
Authors: Cloutier Paula F. , Manion Ian G. , Walker Jan Gordon , Johnson Susan M.
Published: June 2007

Couples with chronically ill children are particularly at risk for experiencing marital distress. The study presented here is a 2‐year follow‐up of a randomized control trial that assessed the efficacy of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in decreasing marital distress in a sample of couples with a chronically ill child. Thirteen couples with chronically ill children who received treatment were assessed to determine if the significant improvement in relationship distress observed at posttreatment and 5‐month follow‐up would be maintained at 2‐year follow‐up. Results demonstrated that improvements in marital functioning were not only maintained but, in some cases, enhanced at the 2‐year follow‐up. This uncontrolled follow‐up study provides initial evidence of the longer‐term benefits of EFT.
EMOTIONAL PROCESSES FOLLOWING DISCLOSURE OF AN EXTRAMARITAL AFFAIR
Authors: Olson Michael M. , Russell Candyce S. , Higgins‐Kessler Mindi , Miller Richard B.
Published: June 2007

In‐depth interviews with individuals who had experienced marital infidelity revealed a three‐stage process following disclosure of an affair. The process starts with an “emotional roller coaster” and moves through a “moratorium” before efforts at trust building are recognized. Implications for the literature on forgiveness and the process of change in couples therapy are discussed as well as implications for future research and for practice.
THE THEORY, STRUCTURE, AND TECHNIQUES FOR THE INCLUSION OF CHILDREN INFAMILY THERAPY: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Lund Lori K. , Zimmerman Toni Schindler , Haddock Shelley A.
Published: June 2007

Many barriers prevent therapists from including young children in family therapy, despite the theoretical belief that every family member should be present. Although there is a wealth of literature describing how to include children, the information has not been compiled in a way that is easily accessible to therapists. In this article, we report the findings of an exhaustive and systematic literature review of 64 publications, published between 1972 and 1999, related to including children in family therapy. The purpose of this article is to offer therapists a succinct compilation of theoretical, structural, and practical aspects as well as a comprehensive listing of specific techniques for including children in family therapy.
CLINICIAN IDENTIFIED BARRIERS TO CLINICAL RESEARCH
Authors: Sandberg Jonathan G. , Johnson Lee N. , Robia Mihaela , Miller Richard B.
Published: June 2007

Involvement of front‐line clinicians in clinical studies is crucial for quality marriage and family therapy effectiveness research. To identify common barriers to clinical research, 326 clinical members of the American Association for Marital and Family Therapy from three geographically diverse states were asked to describe their willingness to participate in a hypothertical research project. Therapists cited time constraints, outside limitations, client concerns, and a lack of understanding about and involvement in the study as major reasons for refusal to participate. Recommendations for building collaborative relationships between clinicians and researchers as well as future research are addressed.
THE PRACTICE OF CLINICAL RESEARCH IN ACCREDITED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY PROGRAMS
Authors: McWey Lenore M. , West Stacy Hernandez , Ruble Nikki M. , Handy Amy K. , Handy David G. , Koshy Mathen , Mills Kathleen
Published: June 2007

This study aims to explore the prevalence of clinic‐based research among accredited marriage and family therapy (MFT) programs and reveal rationales explaining why academic settings may or may not be conducting clinical research. Findings of this project are the result of electronic‐mail surveys completed by 26 accredited MFT programs. Approximately one‐half of the respondents reported currently conducting clinic‐based research. Open‐ended responses reveal factors that lead to research success and failure, as well as reasons was not being conducted at training programs.
COUPLE DYNAMICS AND ATTRIBUTIONS WHEN ONE PARTNER HAS AN ACQUIRED HEARING LOSS: IMPLICATIONS FOR COUPLE THERAPY
Authors: Piercy Susan K. , Piercy Fred P.
Published: June 2007

We discuss the communication difficulties that many couples face when one partner has a hearing loss. We also discuss the role of attribution theory in understanding the marital distress of these couples. Finally, we offer interventions to support better communication between couples facing the challenges of hearing loss.
EVENTS AND EXPERINCES IMPACTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF CLINICAL SELF CONFIDENCE: A STUDY OF THE FIRST YEAR OF CLIENT CONTACT
Authors: Bischoff Richard J. , Barton Marci , Thober Jody , Hawley Rachel
Published: June 2007

Research was conducted to identify the events and experiences influencing the development of clinical self‐confidence during the first year of clinet contact for beginning marriage and family therapists. Thiry‐nine recent graduates of a master's degree training program participated in a semistructured interview in which they were asked to describe the influences on their clinical selfconfidence. Through qualitative analysis, four event and experience categories emerged as exerting the most influence on confidence at this stage of professional development: supervision, contact with clients, contact with peers, and personal life stress. The authors recommend providing strength‐focused supervision, acknowledging the effects of client contact, encoraging peer contact, and attending to personal life stress.
REVIEWS
Authors: Harris Steven M.
Published: June 2007

Bailey, C. E. (Ed.) (2000). Children in therapy: Using the family as a resource.

Doherty, W. J. (2001). Take back your marriage: Sticking together in a world that pulls us apart. New York: Guilford.

Larson, J. H. (2000). Should we stay together? A scientically proven method for evaluating your relationship and improving its chances for long‐term success.

Weiner‐Davis, M. (2001). The divorce remedy: The proven 7‐step program for saving your marriage.
VALUES IN THE ROLE OF THE FAMILY THERAPIST: SELF DETERMINATION AND JUSTICE
Authors: Melito Richard
Published: June 2007

Recently, there has been renewed interest in the role of values in family therapy. A number of theorists agree that there is an inherent ethical dimension in all forms of therapy, because therapy necessarily involves influencing others in accord with a set of values. In cultures that value self determination, a potential conflict arises between the therapist's inherent moral influence and protecting the client's self determination. This article identifies that dilemma and investigates how different treatment approaches resolve it as they attempt to promote justice in the family.
WHEN THERAPISTS DO NOT WANT THEIR CLIENTS TO BE HOMOSEXUAL: A RESPONSE TO ROSIK'S ARTICLE
Authors: Green Robert‐Jay
Published: June 2007

This commentary is a response to Rosik's “Motivational, Ethical, and Epistemological Foundations in the Treatment of Unwanted Homoerotic Attraction” (this issue). Such treatment raises complex questions that cannot be resolved by focusing on the therapist's conservative versus liberal values. Most such clients are deeply ambivalent about their homosexual attractions. The degree to which their homosexuality is “unwanted” is highly variable among them and sometimes within them over time. Clients who are exclusively homosexual are very unlikely to be able to change their sexual attractions, whereas some clients who are bisexual may be more able to “manage” their homoerotic attractions (acting only on their heterosexual feelings). Marriage and family therapists should be able to support a client along whatever sexual orientation path the client ultimately takes, and the client's sense of integrity and interpersonal relatedness are the most important goals of all.
INCORPORATING SEXUAL ORIENTATION INTO MFT TRAINING PROGRAMS: INFUSION AND INCLUSION
Authors: Long Janie K. , Serovich Julianne M.
Published: June 2007

Many authors have questioned the preparedness of family therapists to deal with sexual minority clients. Even though the Commission on Accrediation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) has called for the integration of sexual orientation into the curriculum of marriage and family therapy training programs, the subject continues to be marginalized. The purpose of this article is to encourage trainers to examine their programs' curricula for evidence of heterosexist bias and introduce ways that they might integrate issues related to same‐sex affectional and sexual orientations into their programs via the classroom and the clinic.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Authors: Rowe Cynthia L. , Liddle Howard A.
Published: June 2007

Liddle and Dakof's (1995) comprehensive review of the status of family‐based treatment for drug abuse concluded that this modality offered a “promising, but not definitive” approach to treating drug abuse among adolescents and adults. Less than a decade later, significant progress can be seen in the treatment of drug abuse problems using family‐based approaches, particularly with adolescents. Family‐based treatments are currently recognized as among the most effective apprroaches for adolescent drug abuse. Family‐based treatment of adult drug abuse problems has also advanced in important ways with the recent systematic application and testing of engagement techniques and behavioral couples therapy approaches. The current review characterizes and discusses the developmental status of this subspecialty and outlines areas in which continued research attention is needed.