bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Family Context Therapy: A Model for Family Change*
Authors: Bell John Elderkin
Published: June 2007

Starting where family group therapy fails, this article breaks new territory in family context therapy. Consolidating the past 14 years of his work, Dr. Bell sets forth a conceptual program and methods to meet problems that earlier forms of family therapy could not reach. Here he provides a model drawn from studies, theories, and personal experience of organizational patterns, interrelations, and change among community institutions that provide settings for family functioning. His new methods are designed to modify the family environment so as to solve family problems and promote beneficial family growth—a framework that may bring together a broad variety of existing family development approaches.
Abstracts
Authors: Taggart Morris
Published: June 2007

Davenport, Y. B., Ebert, M. H., Adland, M. L. & Goodwin, F. K. Couples group therapy as an adjunct to Lithium maintenance of the manic patient.

Erickson, M. H. & Rossi, E. L. Autohypnotic experiences of Milton H. Erickson.

Goldman, J. & Coane, J. Family therapy after the divorce: Developing a strategy.

Kinney, J. McC, Masden, B., Fleming, T. & Haapala, D. A. Homebuilders: Keeping families together.

Power, P. W. The adolescent's reaction to chronic illness of a parent: Some implications for family counseling.

Ro‐trock, G. K., Wellisch, D. K. & Schoolar, J. C. A family therapy outcome study in an inpatient setting.

Sager, C. J. A typology of intimate relationships.

Schuman, S. H., Jabaily, G. C. & Samuelson, D. C. Life events in a family with life threatening illness.

Soper, P. H. & L'Abate, L. Paradox as a therapeutic technique: A review.

Weisfeld, D. & Laser, M. S. Divorced parents in family therapy in a residential treatment setting.
Human Sexuality: Past, Present and Future*
Authors: McCary James Leslie
Published: June 2007

The historical impact of times, people, and events on the foundation and development of the human sexuality profession is presented. The present status of the field and the efforts of some of today's leading contributors are also surveyed. Some recent research findings and trends in the direction sex research is taking are briefly discussed.
Saving Sinking Ships: Implications from a Theory of Marital Dissolution
Authors: Laner Mary Riege
Published: June 2007

Critics of marriage, family and divorce counseling have repeatedly noted that technique is infrequently, if ever, underpinned by theory. A recently developed theory of marital dissolution that utilizes a systems perspective is briefly presented. The theory was derived from almost 1,300 propositions in the extant literature, and is readily understandable to layman, practitioner, and academician. Implications contained within the theory for those concerned with saving floundering marital relationships are indicated.
Family Sculpting: A Pilot Program for a Schizophrenic Group*
Authors: Julius Eloise Kates
Published: June 2007

Verbal group therapy is a conventional treatment for schizophrenic patients. This report describes a pilot program of brief group therapy which utilized nonverbal sculpting techniques as the central therapeutic modality. Family sculpting provided a structured format for the patients to organize perceptions of self and family within specific contexts, to experience these perceptions in action, and employ them in resolving family conflicts.
The Family Life Cycle and Clinical Intervention*
Authors: Hughes Sally Farmer , Berger Michael , Wright Larry
Published: June 2007

With an aim toward encouraging more precise identification and treatment of familial dysfunction, the authors suggest combining the principles of first and second order change (Watzlawick, Weakland, and Fisch, 1974) with the concept of the family life cycle (Duvall, 1971). A theoretical discussion is followed by clinical case examples.
Dimensions of Marital Therapy: A Comparative Analysis*
Authors: Gunnan Alan S.
Published: June 2007

This paper offers a comparative analysis of the process of conjoint marital therapy within the three major contemporary models of treatment: psychoanalytic, behavioral, and systems theory. The specific dimensions of the treatment process that are examined are: (1) the role of the past and of the unconscious; (2) the nature and meaning of presenting problems and the role of assessment; (3) the relative importance of mediating vs. ultimate treatment goals; and (4) the nature of the therapists roles and functions. On the basis of this comparative analysis, some thoughts toward the future of the marital therapies are offered.
Relational Paradox: Toward a Language of Interactional Sequences*
Authors: Ackerman Brian L.
Published: June 2007

The author discusses and clarifies the “Theory of Logical Types” which forms the cornerstone of the “Double Bind Hypothesis.” A clear distinction is made between single sentence double binds and double binds that evolve in an interaction over time. The crucial term “metacommunication” is redefined in a manner consistent with logical type theory. The locus of message‐level confusion is shifted from the messages of the sender to the arena of the communicant's interaction. Analysis of the interactional arena reveals a phenomenon which the author labels “Relational Paradox.” Several examples are given which illustrate how paradoxes can arise even if neither interactant is sending messages which are intrinsically bewildering.
The Impact of Home Hemodialysis on the Marital Dyad*
Authors: Brackney Barbara E.
Published: June 2007

Twelve home hemodialysis patients and their spouse‐assistants were evaluated to determine how the interaction between the marital partners affected their marital satisfaction, degree of psychopathology, physical health and effective performance of dialysis‐related tasks. The data suggested that the patient's medical adaptation is enhanced when there is a non‐conflictual relationship and when the spouse makes a positive emotional adjustment to home dialysis, experiencing few somatic complaints. Professional attention, therefore, should shift from the traditional focus on the patient alone to include assessment of the marital relationship and the physical and psychological well‐being of the spouse‐assistant.
International News
Authors: La Perriere Kitty , Kaslow Florence
Published: June 2007

3rd International Congress of Family Therapy Tel Aviv, Israel

FAMILY THERAPY IN THE COMMUNITY LA TERAPIA FAMILIARE NELLA COMMUNITA

Second International Conference in Florence, June 21–24, 1978
Abstracts
Authors: Taggart Morris
Published: June 2007

Hare‐Mustin, R. T. A feminist approach to family therapy.

Krasner, J.D. (Editor). Special Issue: Psychotherapy with elder and dying persons.

Orten, J. D. Organizing concepts in family therapy.

Robinson, D. O. The medical‐school spouse syndrome: Grief reaction to the clinical years.

Westbrook, M. T. The reactions to child‐bearing and early maternal experience of women with differing marital relationships.
Becoming a Marriage, Family and Child Counselor: Notes from a Chicano
Authors: Flores Jose Luis
Published: June 2007

Becoming a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Counselor (MFCC) in California is presented from a Chicano's perspective based on the author's own training. He reports that 1) there is a need for Chicanos trained extensively in marriage and family counseling to serve the large Mexican American population; 2) MFCC is a growing profession yet few Chicanos are entering it; 3) few Chicano professionals are involved in the training, teaching and supervision of marriage and family counselors; and 4) the state licensing board and the two marriage and family counselors' associations do not identify minority counselors nor those who provide Spanish speaking services.
The AIA, a Mental Map for Communicators: A Preliminary Report*
Authors: Mired G. Hugh , Graff Thomas T.
Published: June 2007

The Allred Interaction Analysis is a new instrument, designed from theory and research, that codifies communication. It was created to give researchers a tool for assessing interaction in dyadic relationships (such as husband and wife, parent and child, and sibling and sibling), a cognitive map for efficiently analyzing their verbal communication, pinpointing areas for improvement, working for improvement, and charting their progress along the way. Preliminary experimental evidence indicates that this vehicle is a useful and efficient means for promoting change and that its Level Ratio score is a dependent variable measure of value.
Lawyer and Therapist as an Interdisciplinary Team: Trial Preparation
Authors: Bernstein Barton E.
Published: June 2007

When a therapist becomes a courtroom witness, he/she often is in unfamiliar territory. Before appearing as a witness, a therapist must prepare by completely understanding the case and client, together with courtroom practices and procedures. This article reviews trial preparation and illustrates examination and cross‐examination, opinion testimony and hypothetical questions. The rules of effective response to cross‐examination are set forth to aid the therapist in providing meaningful and credible testimony under adverse and occasionally unpleasant conditions.
Dual‐Career Marriages: Implications for the Clinician*
Authors: Price‐Bonham Sharon , Murphy Donald C.
Published: June 2007

This paper discusses the unique characteristics of dual‐career marriages/families. These familial units are identified as a high stress group presenting unusual challenges to the clinician. Specific implications for the clinician include (1) values of therapist and clients; (2) critical issues; and (3) assets and liabilities. It is concluded that while dual‐career couples may be demanding clients, the therapist can be sure he/she will have an intriguing, eventful, and meaningful experience along the way.
Implementation of Behavioral Marital Therapy
Authors: Lester Gregory W. , Beckham Ernest , Baucom Donald H.
Published: June 2007

Implementing behavioral marital therapy is discussed with emphasis on the techniques of problem‐solving, communications training, behavioral contracting, and homework assignments. The therapist's intervention style and the aspects of treatment which aid in generalization and maintenance of therapeutic gains are also described, and a typical treatment session is outlined.
Abstracts
Authors: Taggart Morris
Published: June 2007

Benedek, E. P. & Benedek, R. S. Joint custody: Solution or illusion?American Journal of Psychiatry,

Bennett, M. J. & Wisneski, M. J. Continuous psychotherapy within an HMO. American Journal of Psychiatry,

DiBella, A. W. Family psychotherapy with the homosexual family: A community psychiatry approach to homosexuality. Community Mental Health Journal,

Green R. J., Ferguson, L. R. Framo, J. L. Shapiro, R. J. & La Perriere, K. A symposium on family training for psychologists. Professional Psychology,

Ferguson, L. R. The family life cycle: Orientation for interdisciplinary training. Professional Psychology,

Framo, J. L. A personal viewpoint on training in marital and family therapy. Professional Psychology,

Shapiro, R. J. The problematic position of family therapy in professional training. Professional Psychology,

La Perriere, K. Toward the training of broad‐range family therapists. Professional Psychology,

Mirande, A. A reinterpretation of male dominance in the Chicano family. The Family Coordinator,

Murray, M. E. Family character analysis. American Journal of Psychoanalysis,
A Comparative Analysis of the Effectiveness of Conciliation Counseling on Certain Personality Variables*
Authors: Sampel David D. , Seymour Warren R.
Published: June 2007

Twelve couples undergoing court‐ordered counseling in Iowa were compared to a “voluntary” counseling group, and a no‐counseling control group to see what changes, if any, would occur during the treatment period on certain personality variables, as measured by the Taylor‐Johnson Temperament Analysis (TJTA), and on perceived marital adjustment problems, as measured by the Marriage Adjustment Inventory (MAI). Dissolution rates were also compared post‐treatment. Minimal differences were found among the groups in the amount, and direction, of changes on the two instruments. Differences in dissolution rates were found, as expected, but court‐ordered counseling did appear to have a positive effect with some couples.
Religious Cults: Family Concerns and the Law
Authors: Schwartz Lita Linzer , Zemel Jacqueline L.
Published: June 2007

The activities of contemporary religious cults cause concern and controversy among parents and mental health practitioners, both because they are perceived as threats to the well‐being of their young adult members and because such cults are protected by the First Amendment. The primary issues discussed here are “mind control” and informed consent. Possible bases for legal redress of alleged injuries, as well as possible preventive measures, are suggested.
Essay Review: At the End of a Decade
Authors: Lieberman E. James
Published: June 2007

Andolfi, Maurizio. Family therapy: An interactional approach.

Barnard, Charles P. & Corrales, Ramon Garrido. The theory and technique of family therapy.

Klimek, David. Beneath mate selection and marriage: The unconscious motives in human pairing.
Does Marital Therapy Do Any Lasting Good?*
Authors: Cookerly J. Richard
Published: June 2007

This paper presents a five year follow‐up investigation of former marital therapy clients and aims at answering the two questions: “Does Marital Therapy do any lasting good?” and if it does, “Which kinds of marital therapy do the most lasting good?” Conjoint and non‐conjoint forms of marital therapy were compared to divorce rates and whether or not a poor, moderate or good outcome resulted. The findings generally indicated conjoint forms of marital therapy were superior to non‐conjoint forms.
Parent Effectiveness Training (P.E.T.): Criticisms and Caveats1
Authors: Doherty William J. , Ryder Robert G.
Published: June 2007

Noting that Parent Effectiveness Training (P.E.T.) has achieved a measure of uncritical acceptance among professionals and laypersons, the authors express reservations about the program. In particular, RE. T. is criticized for its emphasis on one‐sided techniques in the parent‐child relationship as well as its tendency to reduce complex problems to simplistic formulas. RE.T.'s central metaphor of parent‐as‐therapist is identified and found wanting. Finally, the authors pose a number of potential hazards of RE.T. for individuals and families, and observe that some of the issues raised here may have applicability beyond P.E.T. to the parent education movement in general
Do Personality Changes Occur in Parents Receiving Behavioral Family Therapy?
Authors: Keller James F. , Elliott Stephen S.
Published: June 2007

The present outcome study is a preliminary report on whether personality changes occur in parents receiving behavioral family therapy. Behavioral techniques for changing the identified patient's presenting problem were taught to the parents and each family member was given a weekly behavioral homework assignment intended to change the dysfunctional interactions assessed in the family.

An analysis of pre and post measures using Cattell's 16PF questionnaire showed a significant decrease in the parent's self‐sufficiency index, indicating increased group dependence. The mean number of sessions was 12.6. The results of this study raise questions about the nature of the personality changes occurring in family therapy of this type. Family therapists, often‐times assuming the role of the “expert” for the family, may be unwittingly fostering group dependence and losses in confidence for parents receiving such family guidance.
Problem Centered Systems Therapy of the Family*
Authors: Epstein Nathan B. , Bishop Duane S.
Published: June 2007

The demands upon clinicians, teachers and researchers in the family therapy field all point to the need for clear descriptions of conceptual orientations and the specifics of the therapy process. The model presented in this article grew out of research and clinical work which led to a shift in focus from specific therapist interventions to the major steps in the overall treatment process. The major stages of Assessment, Contracting, Treatment and Closure each contain a sequence of sub‐steps. Each step is operationally described and has clear objectives which facilitate open collaboration between therapist and family, and provide the family with a problem solving model. The model developed in the context of short term and focused clinical work. It offers a guide for the basic treatment approach to be used by beginners as well as the foundation and infrastructure for the work of advanced therapists.
Three's Company: Family Therapy with Only‐Child Families
Authors: Feldman Gail C.
Published: June 2007

The only child and his or her parents may have special problems when it comes to settling the issues of parent‐child identification and attachment. Children, regardless of birth order or number of siblings, cope more easily with the developmental tasks of the oedipal period if there is not pressure to remain loyal to just one of the parental pair. The child without siblings and his/her parents face a continuing oedipal triangle unless the parents maintain a comfortable and united partnership at best, or at least are able to encourage independence in the child.
Teaching Family Therapy: Ten Key Questions for Understanding the Family as Patient
Authors: Resnikoff Roy O.
Published: June 2007

This paper presents ten questions for understanding family functioning as a format for teaching one important aspect of family therapy. These self‐asked questions are then illustrated with a large, overly‐close family.
Reciprocity Counseling: Practice and Research*
Authors: Mead D. Eugene
Published: June 2007

This paper reviews the literature on reciprocity counseling. Evidence is presented for the usefulness of reciprocity counseling with young, well educated, white clients with slight to moderate marital distress. Research into the effectiveness of several components of reciprocity counseling including contracting, problem solving training and feedback is reviewed. Findings suggest that contracting alone is an important positive influence in increasing couples' reciprocating reinforcement. The impact of problem solving training is unclear. Sex of the therapist may influence husband and wife outcomes in problem solving training differentially. Couples' performance of problem‐solving behavior appears to be under the control of other as yet unspecified variables. Feedback as a single treatment has unpredictable and sometimes negative results. Therefore use of feedback alone or without careful supervision appears questionable at this time. Issues raised for further research include use of token economies for more severely distressed couples, use of multiple therapists, and the development of a classification scheme for the severity of marital distress.
Process of Symptom Production and Patterns of Symptom Maintenance
Authors: Sluzki Carlos E.
Published: June 2007

In the search for the process of symptom production, on the one hand, and for the patterns of symptom maintenance, on the other, lies the key difference between the two main orientations in the field of family therapy; the psychodynamic and the system‐oriented approaches. They imply conceptual and operational hypotheses stemming from different logics, different sets of data, different lines of inquiry and, alas, different treatment strategies. Clearly distinctive traits of each of these two lines are discussed and exemplified, with special emphasis on the interactional, systemic view.
How Therapeutic Intervention Does Create the Prerequisites of Change in Human Relations
Authors: Caillé Philippe
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this paper is to stress our belief that therapeutic intervention does not have the power to create durable, predetermined changes in human systems. Still, a number of therapists seem to feel that certain adjustments are necessary if improvement is to occur and try to convince families to adopt them. Such partial moves ignore the question of what has prevented the family from discovering such beneficial adaptations on its own.

We suggest that the basic rules of the family prohibit it from changing. Tb stimulate the inherent healing capacities of human systems, a preferable goal might be to validate the present functioning of the family through an understanding of the different levels of its self perception (phenomenological model, mythical model). If this is done effectively, a possible reformulation of the relationship is truly facilitated. Relations between the participants will continue, but will no longer be what they were before. The effectiveness of the intervention is confirmed by the appearance of new beliefs, new perceptions. Any behavioral modifications shown by family members are logical consequences of their new conception of the relationship, not the causes of it.
Resolving Conflicts in Family Distance Regulation: An Integrative Approach
Authors: Byng‐Hall J. , Campbell D.
Published: June 2007

An approach to family therapy is described in which the conceptual formulation provides a framework for integrating many techniques into a coherent whole. Conflicts in distance regulation, and the “too far/too close” family systems in particular are described to illustrate how the authors conceptualize one form of family dysfunction, and how this formulation generates a set of therapeutic tasks aimed at recalibrating distance boundaries. Teaching practices congruent with the therapy are outlined.
The South African Family in Transition: Training and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Landau Judith , Griffiths John
Published: June 2007

A universal pattern of transition from the extended family to the nuclear family and beyond is proposed. Stages of transition concurrently found among South African families are detailed and examples of resultant pathology are presented. Emphasis is given to specific therapeutic dilemmas facing the South African family therapist. These include the feasibility of intervention in the extended family, the problems associated with intervention across cultural boundaries and the appropriateness of specific therapeutic goals. The current status of training is outlined and the prerequisites for effective service and training are highlighted.
Normative Family Development
Authors: Barcai Avner
Published: June 2007

Healthy, normal families pass through a sequentially developmental life cycle. Family therapists need a normative framework within which to test for dysfunction and pathology in family process. This paper provides an exposition of these developmental stages and forms, and therefore, hopefully some universal guidelines for the practice of family therapy.
Family Therapy with Psychotic Patients: An Institutional Approach
Authors: Canevaro Alfredo
Published: June 2007

The author raises some questions about how an institution that specialized in treating psychotic patients and their relatives must be. He stresses the importance of centralizing the treatment on the whole family group and its insertion in a multi‐family structure. He places importance on the system formed by the staff which should receive the same attention as the patients, if they are to get the best out of the therapeutic community. A brief description of the therapeutic context is given and there is a focusing on the clinic facts. Two cases are presented illustratively.
Family Therapy in a Biomedical Context
Authors: Abroms Gene M.
Published: June 2007

The role of family therapy has to be redefined in the wake of the reemergence of the medical model in psychiatry, which now encompasses biological, psychological, and social parameters. In this biopsychosocial model, the goal of biological therapy is to promote cognitive and affective regulation through the prescribing of neuroleptic and mood‐stabilizing chemicals. The goal of individual psychological therapy is to teach individuals how to achieve intimate relationships and creative work productivity. The goal of social therapy, typified by family therapy, is to promote socialization, involving social belonging and obligation in terms of individual autonomy and freedom. One of the implications of allocating circumscribed objectives to the various therapies is that mental health professionals, even more in the future than in the past, will have to work together as collaborative team members.
Abstracts
Authors: Olson David H.
Published: June 2007

Avery, A., Ridley, C, Leslie, L., and Milholland, T. Relationship Enhancement with Premarital Dyads: A Six‐Month Followup. American Journal of Family Therapy, 1980, 8, 3, 23–31.

Bader, E., Microys, G., Sinclair, C, Willett, E. and Conway, B. Do Marriage Preparation Programs Really Work: A Canadian Experiment. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 1980, 6, 2, 171–179.

Hof, L., Epstein, N., and Miller, W. Integrating Attitudinal and Behavioral Change in Marital Enrichment. Family Relations, 1980, 29, 241–248.

L'Abate, L. Screening Couples for Marital Enrichment Programs. American Journal of Family Therapy, 1980, 8, 3, 74–77.

Nelson, R. C. and Friest, W. P. Marital Enrichment through Choice Awareness. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 1980, 6, 4, 399–407.

Wagner, V, Weeks, G. and L'Abate, L. Enrichment and Written Message with Couples. American Journal of Family Therapy, 1980, 8, 3, 36–45.

Wampler, K. S., and Sprenkle, D. H., The Minnesota Couple Communication Program: A Follow‐Up Study, Journal of Marriage and the Family, August, 1980, 42, 3, 577–584.
Intervening in Family Systems with Observer Messages*
Authors: Breunlin Douglas C. , Cade Brian
Published: June 2007

This article presents an approach to family therapy in which a group of observers becomes part of a therapeutic team by introducing strategic messages into the sessions. The observers, who operate from behind a two‐way mirror, are thus able to effect change in both the family system and the therapeutic system consisting of family and therapist. Messages are described in terms of five components: function, target, timing, content, and delivery. Some guidelines for effective team functioning are given and three examples illustrate the approach. Finally, implications for training are discussed.
Family Interventions in a Private Pediatric Practice1
Authors: Eastman Judith N. , Mesibov Gary B.
Published: June 2007

The overwhelmingly positive response to a parent support and assistance program in a private pediatric office has been very gratifying (Mesibov, Schroeder, and Wesson, 1977). There have been several other positive offshoots of the program which had not been anticipated initially. One of these has been the identification of underlying marital and/or family problems of parents seeking advice about their children's behaviors. This is the main focus of this paper.
THE EVALUATION PHASE OF SYSTEMIC FAMILY THERAPY*
Authors: Caille Philippe
Published: June 2007

The initial, evaluation phase of family therapy is of decisive importance within the systemic perspective. Contacting a therapist is always a complex action for a family. The therapist's evaluation must include the possibility that continued contact may influence the family negatively and limit their potential for change. If there appears to be a logical context in which continued therapy can be justified, it will be necessary to use the first three or four sessions to collect essential data and to organize them meaningfully. It is essential to clarify the circular interaction that is maintaining the symptom, as well as the presence of specific family structures and traditions, and the kind of relationships the family attempts to establish with the therapist. On the basis of this information, the therapist can build models of the family's functioning. These models, according to general system theory, make possible logical intervention in complicated, living systems, without distorting them by artificially splitting them into their component parts. Two models that are important to our treatment perspective—the phenomenological and the mythical—are presented.
PARADOXICAL PRESCRIPTIONS IN FAMILY THERAPY: FROM CHILD TO MARITAL FOCUS
Authors: Protinsky Howard , Quinn William , Elliott Stephen
Published: June 2007

Theorists in family therapy have written about the difficulties in making attempts to move from a presenting problem of a child to a focus on marital tension. Difficulties include the presence of resistance and the risk of alienation between family and therapist. Proposed in this article is a technique using paradoxical prescription with families to successfully move away from the identified patient to an emphasis on family and marital dynamics. Three clinical illustrations are presented to demonstrate the procedure. Some research questions are posed regarding the use of this technique and the need for further understanding and refinement.
RUNAWAYS: JURISDICTION, DYNAMICS, AND TREATMENT
Authors: Morgan Oliver J.
Published: June 2007

New research indicates more clearly than ever that running away from home is indeed a family affair. Understood as such, the implications for society's jurisdictional response and for effective treatment planning are deep and far‐reaching. The “status offender” legal jurisdiction over runaways needs to be changed and new alternatives for dealing with runaways and their families developed. The planning and implementation of these alternatives need to be informed with the perspectives of a family therapeutic approach sensitive to the intergenerational forces of loyalty, legacy, and trust operating within families.
PAIN PATIENTS AND THEIR PARTNERS; THE ROLE OF COLLUSION IN CHRONIC PAIN
Authors: Delvey Joseph , Hopkins Linda
Published: June 2007

The mystery of pain which is refractory to repeated medical and surgical intervention often becomes understandable upon examination of the chronic pain patient's family dynamics. Analogous to recent descriptions of dyadic patterns in depression, the chronic pain patient typically has a partner who performs a caretaking function. The caretaking role, while superficially appearing “helpful”, is in many cases extreme and contributory to the maintenance of the chronic pain role. The concept of collusion is used here to explain the formation and persistence of patient‐caretaker dyads. Case material is presented to show how an examination of the chronic pain patient and his partner can alert the clinician to the presence of psychological factors in chronic pain.
PERSONAL AUTHORITY VIA TERMINATION OF THE INTERGENERATIONAL HIERARCHICAL BOUNDARY: PART II—THE CONSULTATION PROCESS AND THE THERAPEUTIC METHOD
Authors: Williamson Donald S.
Published: June 2007

This paper is by way of a continuation of the definition of the theoretical position on the termination of the intergenerational hierarchical boundary, presented earlier (Williamson, 1981). That paper argued that this termination requires “a radical renegotiation of the power structures in the relationships between the two generations, and in the interactional political patterns which ensue from these.” This paper reports on and describes a therapeutic methodology for securing and completing such a “radical renegotiation.” It is implied that this therapeutic procedure has widespread applicability to the resolution of behavioral problems.
REMARRIAGE: A FAMILY DEVELOPMENTAL PROCESS
Authors: Whiteside Mary F.
Published: June 2007

As family members move from first marriage, through divorce and the two household family, to early and then established remarriage, they face predictable periods of transition in which family structure is disrupted and reorganized. Clinical examples are used to illustrate the view that an understanding of the pain of transition and the effectiveness of reorganization must be placed in the context of(l) the challenges characteristic of the current phase in the divorce‐remarriage cycle, (2) the life cycle issues of individual family members, and (3) the legacy of previous family structural organizations.
LET US FIRST DO NO HARM
Authors: Becvar Raphael J. , Becvar Dorothy Stroh , Bender Albert E.
Published: June 2007

This article offers the hypothesis that an increasing effort to help families and marriages may inadvertently contribute to their dysfunction. By examining the institutions of family and marriage in the broader societal perspective as well as the theories we use to assign the labels “functional” or “dysfunctional” to families and marriages, we may render a more useful service to the health of these systems. In our enthusiasm to do good, let us first do no harm.
A BRIEF REJOINDER TO A BRIEF REJOINDER TO SLUZKI
Authors: Sluzki Carlos E.
Published: June 2007

A journalist interviews a 130‐year‐old man: “Tell me, old man, how did you reach such an advanced age in such good shape?”

“My secret is very simple; I have never, ever in my whole life contradicted anybody.”

“Never, ever anybody? It can't be!”

“No, it can't be.”
SNARES IN FAMILY THERAPY
Authors: Palazzoli Mara Selvini , Prata Giuliana
Published: June 2007

Telephone calls after therapy sessions, concurrent individual treatment of family members, the offer of secret revelations, and the use of psychoactive drugs all involve issues and events that can be insidious to effective family therapy. Various tactics are presented which not only succeed in controlling these incidents, but which also use them as important occasions for therapeutic intervention within the model of family therapy developed by Selvini Palazzoli and her colleagues in Milan.
INTERMINABLE SEX THERAPY: A REPORT ON TEN CASES OF THERAPEUTIC GRIDLOCK
Authors: Levay Alexander N. , Kagle Arlene
Published: June 2007

This paper reports on ten cases in which treatment began with conventional sex therapy and was later modified by incorporating techniques of psychodynamic couple therapy. While the modifications initially led to symptom reversal, the reversal of symptoms activated a recycling sequence of relapses and renewed symptom reversals, ultimately terminating in treatment failure. While the ten couples were heterogeneous in many respects, they did form a distinct clinical group. In common, they demonstrated a set of characteristics laced with hate, love and dependency, which interacted to create what the authors have called “therapeutic gridlock” and “interminable” sex therapy.
COUPLES' LONG‐TERM EVALUATIONS OF THEIR MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER EXPERIENCE
Authors: Lester Mary Ellen , Doherty William J.
Published: June 2007

This retrospective survey was conducted to determine how couples felt about their Marriage Encounter experience an average of four years later. One hundred twenty‐nine couples were randomly selected from those who attended a National Marriage Encounter weekend in Eastern Iowa over a ten‐year period. The results indicated that about 80% of the couples reported a totally positive experience. The most frequently cited positive aspect of the program was the “dialogue” or communication technique designed to encourage the expression of feelings. Nearly one in ten couples reported three or more negative effects of the program on their relationship. The most frequently cited negative effect was that needs were identified on the weekend but not subsequently fulfilled, resulting in greater frustration for the respondent. Within the design limits of a retrospective survey, we concluded that Marriage Encounter is viewed as a helpful experience by most couples, but that a significant minority of couples may experience negative consequences of the program.
BRIEF FAMILY‐FOCUSED INTERVENTION ON THE PEDIATRIC CANCER UNIT
Authors: Friedrich William N. , Copeland Donna R.
Published: June 2007

Behavioral problems that frequently occur in pediatric cancer treatment settings, such as food refusal and the resistance to treatment, have been successfully treated utilizing family therapy techniques. The theoretical background that supports this mode of intervention and several case studies are presented.
PERSONAL AUTHORITY IN THE FAMILY SYSTEM: DEVELOPMENT OF A QUESTIONNAIRE TO MEASURE PERSONAL AUTHORITY IN INTERGENERATIONAL FAMILY PROCESSES*
Authors: Bray James H. , Williamson Donald S. , Malone Paul E.
Published: June 2007

This paper reports a series of studies on the development of the Personal Authority in the Family System (PAFS) questionnaire. The PAFS questionnaire is designed to measure family processes based on aspects of current intergenerational family theory (Williamson, 1981, 1982b). Eight scales which measure concepts such as differentiation/fusion, intimacy/isolation, and personal authority/intimidation in the three‐generational context comprise the questionnaire. Study 1 indicates that the scales have good internal consistency and good test‐retest reliability. Correlations with other measures of family processes provide validity for some of the PAFS scales. Study 2 confirms the underlying factor structure of the PAFS questionnaire and supports the construct validity of the scales. Implications for intergenerational family theory and applications in research and clinical practice are discussed.
THE UTILITY OF STRUCTURAL FAMILY THERAPY NOMENCLATURE: BETWEEN‐CLINICIAN AGREEMENT IN THE CONJOINT FAMILY ASSESSMENT INTERVIEW
Authors: O'Sullivan Sean , Berger Michael , Foster Martha
Published: June 2007

As a pilot study of the reliability of the categories used to describe family structure in structural family therapy, five clinicians independently rated three initial conjoint family interviews in terms of: (a) general problem description; (b) triangular transactional patterns around the presenting problems; (c) family life cycle stage; and (d) overall problem‐focused structural map of the family. The results which, at their worst, are comparable to early studies of the reliability of individual diagnostic categories, are discussed in terms of their demonstration of the utility of the structural nomenclature, some conceptual problems in the structural nomenclature, and methodological limitations of the study which suggest design changes that will improve future research.
RESEARCH IN FAMILY THERAPY: A GRADUATE LEVEL COURSE
Authors: Sprenkle Douglas H. , Piercy Fred P.
Published: June 2007

Training in family therapy research must move beyond traditional methods courses. This paper describes a five‐unit course which (a) reviews the fundamentals of research methodology and grounds the student in the history of psychotherapy research in general; (b) gives an overview of family research through detailed analysis of major review articles; (c) covers instrumentation tools and techniques; (d) critically evaluates key investigations in the field; and (e) examines the challenges of the “new epistemologies” for family therapy research. Learning activities are described for each unit that engage the student in such a way that the learning of research might be enjoyable as well as interesting. The paper may also be employed as a guide for self‐study in family therapy research.
Functional Family Therapy And The Treatment Of Inhibited Sexual Desire
Authors: Regas Susan J. , Sprenkle Douglas H.
Published: June 2007

Although inhibited sexual desire is very common, the literature indicates that it is extremely difficult to treat successfully. Functional Family Therapy (Alexander & Parsons, 1982) appears to be a promising treatment approach. This paper defines the major goals of Functional Family Therapy and applies these goals to the treatment of inhibited sexual desire, and a case study illustrates the utility of the model.
WHY FAMILY THERAPY SHOULD BE BOTH HOMEOSTATIC AND COHERENT: A KUHNIAN REPLY TO DELL
Authors: Ariel Shlomo , Carel Cynthia A. , Tyano Samuel
Published: June 2007

Our reading of the relevant literature, explication of the concepts of family homeostasis, family rules, etc., and critical analysis of Dell's arguments have been oriented by the same systemic, interactional and context‐sensitive paradigm as Dell's. We see the empirical data through the same epistemological spectacles as he does. Therefore, our critique is not only consistent and valid (as admitted by Dell) but also compatible with his world view. His arguments fail on logical and methodological, not epistemological, grounds. The freshly elaborated arguments included in his reply have failed to convince us that the concepts of homeostasis, family rules, family feedback mechanisms, etc., should be discarded. We did and do concede, however, that family theory should “go beyond homeostasis” by adding the concept of coherence to its repertoire, in order to explain second‐order change. The latter concepts should also be formally explicated.
PARADOX AND ORTHODOX: FOLIE À DEUX?*
Authors: Fraser J. Scott
Published: June 2007

In the recent family therapy literature, therapists have been cautioned to use paradoxical looking techniques as either a last resort, or else not to use such actions at all with specific problems. The paper argues that these stances arise from a rigid adherence to a set of orthodox views from which these actions appear contradictory. Similar to family systems, when such orthodox therapy systems do not question or alter their own premises in the face of contradiction, they tend to attribute either badness or madness to the action and either try to exorcise the badness, or banish the action. The literature which either prescribes “paradox as a last resort,” or which proscribes it altogether is reviewed and critiqued. Walter Buckley's process/adaptive system model is recommended as a positive alternative view from which such previously pardoxical actions may often be elected as a logical and effective first choice.
THE TREATMENT OF BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER WITHIN A DISTRESSED RELATIONSHIP*
Authors: Koch Alberta , Ingram Timothy
Published: June 2007

An integrated systemic‐psychodynamic approach to the treatment of characterological disorders within conjoint marital therapy is suggested. Spouses' personality disorders may serve a homeostatic function within the marital relationship. Thus, any effort to effect change on either the marital or individual system level must address both the individual and relationship distress. Borderline personality disorder, an extreme characterological impairment, has been considered intractible, although object relations therapists have experienced success in treating such clients. The present paper draws from object relations and systemic therapies in developing a treatment approach to marriages which include at least one borderline spouse. A case example illustrates the conceptualizations and interventions which are proposed.
FAMILY THERAPY OUTCOME RESEARCH: POTENTIAL PITFALLS AND PROSPECTS*
Authors: Jacobson Neil S.
Published: June 2007

This paper raises and attempts to resolve some significant and controversial issues in the design of family therapy outcome studies. First, the issue of clinical relevance is addressed. Much of psychotherapy research has little relevance for practicing clinicians; this paper discusses some partial explanations and proposes some changes in the way data are reported that would have a salutary effect. Second, inter‐model comparative outcome studies are critiqued. Third, the necessary preconditions for internally valid outcome studies are delineated, along with conditions in which randomization and the use of control groups can be abandoned. Fourth, there is a discussion of a research strategy which examines the generalizability of treatment effects found in research settings to conditions which come closer to resembling clinical practice. Fifth, questions regarding the selection of therapists for family therapy outcome research are addressed, including the issue of optimal level of therapist experience, and the question of whether or not “therapists” should be treated as a randomized factor in the overall design. Finally, there is a brief discussion of outcome criteria, with a fairly clear‐cut and straightforward recommendation for determining whether or not a family therapy has had a desirable effect.
ON THE NEED FOR CONVERSATION IN THE FAMILY THERAPY FIELD
Authors: Dell Paul F.
Published: June 2007

It is argued that the field of family therapy has entered a period which is characterized by a considerable absence of conversation. Such a lack hinders the field's development and increasingly saps its vitality. It is proposed that there be an annual working conference, founded on conversation and dialogue, which would rigorously examine (one at a time) the core issues of the field. It is further proposed that the papers and discussions at each conference be published as an annual monograph.
ETHICAL DILEMMAS IN FAMILY THERAPY
Authors: Green Susan L. , Hansen James C.
Published: June 2007

A review of the literature in the area of ethical dilemmas facing family therapists revealed that there were a number of issues facing family therapists which are not included in the Principles for Family Therapists (1984) of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Seventy‐five family therapists from across the nation responded to a questionnaire which asked what ethical dilemmas they face and how helpful the ethical guidelines are with these dilemmas. Results indicate that family therapists are encountering dilemmas which are not included in the Principles, significantly more often than those that are included. The ethical principles were found to be helpful for those ethical dilemmas attended to by the Principles.
SIBLING THERAPY WITH MULTIPROBLEM FAMILIES*
Authors: Lewis Karen Gail
Published: June 2007

Most family therapy deals with the parent‐child system. However, with chaotic multiproblem families, this often is not possible. When parents refuse to, or cannot, participate in the therapy, working with just the siblings (Sibling Therapy) offers one way to provide help to troubled children. When parents offer inconsistent or inadequate nuturing, seeing the children together is a way of developing or strengthening the bonds among them and teaching them how to be available to each other. This article proposes setting treatment goals that are consistent with the cultural and family styles of these children, describes methods for developing caring and cohesion, and presents techniques for working with these children.
THE QUEST FOR INTIMACY*
Authors: Wynne Lyman C. , Wynne Adele R.
Published: June 2007

The creation or enhancement of intimacy is a goal that is widely sought in contemporary Western life and in many therapeutic and enrichment programs with couples and families. In this paper, intimate experience is conceptualized within a developmental, or epigenetic, framework of relational systems, viewed from an evolutionary and historical perspective, and considered in the light of hypotheses about gender differences. Intimacy recurs most reliably, not when it is demanded as a primary or continuous experience, but when it emerges spontaneously within a context of basic, well‐functioning relational processes.
THE DOUBLE BIND: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF RESPONSES TO INCONSISTENT COMMUNICATIONS*
Authors: Roy Leena , Sawyers Janet K.
Published: June 2007

An empirical study of communications in a mother‐child context was conducted. Cognitive, emotional, and metacommunicational responses to “subtle inconsistencies” and consistencies in communication in this context were studied. Subtle inconsistency was found to be more stressful, complex, and evocative of responses showing a lack of metacommunication than consistency, by both clinical and non‐clinical adolescents. Finer differences were also found between clinical and non‐clinical adolescents' emotional and metacommunicational responses to subtle inconsistency. The findings provide empirical support for the double bind hypothesis.