THE THEORY AND PRACTICE OF FEMINIST-INFORMED FAMILY THERAPY: A DELPHI STUDY (WOMEN, GENDER)

FRANCES DOROTHY WHEELER, Purdue University

Abstract

This explorative study attempted to identify major theoretical assumptions, major therapeutic techniques or interventions, and major goals associated with a feminist or gender-sensitive approach to family therapy. The study also explored major similarities and differences between the family systems approach and a feminist or gender-sensitive approach to family therapy. And finally, this study examined some of the major criticisms of family systems therapy from a feminist or gender-sensitive perspective, as well as some of the major problems with a feminist or gender-sensitive perspective in terms of its applicability to family therapy. This study utilized the Delphi technique which queries a panel of knowledgeable persons on a series of repeated questionnaires with feedback supplied between rounds concerning the group's comments and responses. The Delphi technique, modified from the typical three round questionnaire format to a two round format was employed to identify those areas which panelists agreed should be included in the final profile of a feminist or gender-sensitive approach to family therapy. The results of this study indicate that panelists think the "neutral" stance of family systems is particularly problematic as it allows sexism in the family and in family therapy to remain unrecognized and unchallenged. Family therapists should, according to panelists, adopt a critical understanding of the ways in which socialization and family therapy maintain family problems. The panelists recommend that family therapists communicate this understanding to clients while, at the same time, working to correct and compensate for the effects of sex role stereotyping and discrimination. Participants consistently recommend that special care be taken so that both the practice of family therapy and the dynamics of family interaction do not continue to burden women with the double responsibility for both causing and correcting family difficulties. While panelists suggest that family therapists need more education and training regarding gender issues, they also emphasize that care must be taken to prevent a gender-sensitive approach (which is still insufficiently developed) from becoming a crusade that might engender resistance and polarize productive debate and discussion.

Degree

Ph.D.

Subject Area

Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology|Womens studies

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