The process and politics of solution-focused therapy theory development: A qualitative analysis
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to deepen our understanding of therapeutic theory development through the interpretation and narrative description of the development of one of the fastest growing, internationally recognized schools of family therapy, solution-focused therapy. Qualitative interviews were conducted with each of the original developers of solution-focused therapy as well as several internationally known marriage and family therapists with rich associations to the Brief Family Therapy Center and solution-focused therapy. Themes and categories were inductively derived from the data. The major finding of the study was that certain climatic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal conditions and dynamics were needed for solution-focused therapy theory development to occur. In addition, two qualities of the founders' relationship to their surrounding environment were found to encourage solution-focused therapy theory development: a lack of accountability to funding sources and physical and theoretical isolation. Specific group activities were found to be an integral part of the theory development process. Reviews of submitted articles, conference presentations, and training of therapists enabled the founders to further articulate, disseminate, and modify existing theory.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Piercy, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Psychotherapy|Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology|Social work
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