AN EXPLORATION OF METAPHOR IN THERAPY: DEVELOPMENT OF A SCALE (MARRIAGE)

DORINDA LEE MCCAULEY, Purdue University

Abstract

This dissertation will begin by exploring scholarly attempts to capture metaphor. The work of philosophers and linguists will be examined followed by a discussion of how metaphor is being used in therapy and the rationale behind its use. Marriage therapy will be the particular focus. The empirical research will substantially be based on two hypotheses. The first hypothesis states that happlily married couples have a higher degree of agreement on specific metaphors of marriage than unhappliy married couples. The second hypothesis states that unhappy couples have more difference between their real and ideal views of marriage than happy couples. To test these hypotheses, 118 married couples took two tests: the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) and the McCauley Metaphor Scale (MMS). Each coupled received four scores: an MMS-REAL and MMS-IDEAL discrepancy score, an MMS difference score and the DAS score. A discriminant analysis and a Pearson correlation tested whether the MMS discrepancy scores divide the groups in the same manner as the DAS. A Pearson correlation between the couple's DAS scores and the MMS difference scores tested hypothesis two. Two forms of reliability of the MMS were measured, test-retest and Cronbach's alpha, and a factor analysis was performed on the metaphors of the MMS. The first hypothesis was not supported. A possible explanation and ramifications for the larger theory are discussed. The second hypothesis was supported. The factor analysis revealed four significant factors: negativity, difficulty, productivity, and celebration. An ANOVA was then performed, again using the DAS scores, to test the hypothesis that couples in the happy group and couples in the unhappy group would respond very differently to each factor. This was supported. The final chapter of this dissertation discusses what was learned from this study, points out the problems with the study and suggests implications for future research.

Degree

Ph.D.

Subject Area

Psychotherapy

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