Showing papers in "American Journal of Family Therapy in 1981"
TL;DR: In this article, the authors found that the clients' unrealistic beliefs about self and marital relationships were negatively associated with their estimated chance for improvement in therapy, desire to improve rather than terminate the relationship, preference for marital versus individually oriented treatment, and overall marital satisfaction.
Abstract: Forty-seven marital therapy couples completed inventories measuring unrealistic beliefs about self and unrealistic beliefs about marital relationships. In addition, they completed questionnaire measures of their expectations and goals for therapy and their levels of marital satisfaction. As hypothesized, the clients' unrealistic beliefs, particularly those regarding relationships, were negatively associated with their estimated chance for improvement in therapy, desire to improve rather than terminate the relationship, preference for marital versus individually oriented treatment, and overall marital satisfaction. These results are consistent with the theoretical rationale for cognitive therapy with clinical couples and suggest specific targets for intervention in this process. Directions for future research are discussed.
186 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a conceptual model explaining how the answers to these questions influence family conflict attitudes and behavior is presented. But the focus of this paper is on how causal attributions affect blaming behavior, generalization of one negative conflict to other family situations, and family members' sense of efficacy for solving their problems.
Abstract: When involved in an ongoing family conflict, family members are assumed to ask themselves attributional questions (e.g., “Who or what is causing this problem?”) and efficacy questions (e.g., “Can we solve this problem?”). Using attribution theory and social learning theory constructs, this paper presents a conceptual model explaining how the answers to these questions influence family conflict attitudes and behavior. The focus of this paper (the first of a two part series) is on how causal attributions affect blaming behavior, generalization of one negative conflict to other family situations, and family members' sense of efficacy for solving their problems. The author calls for more attention to the role of the individual's cognitions in family conflict situations.
100 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the second part of a cognitive model of family conflict is presented, in which the authors discuss the influence of causal attributions and efficacy expectations on conflict attitudes and behavior.
Abstract: This paper, in presenting the second part of a cognitive model of family conflict, discusses the influence of efficacy expectations on conflict attitudes and behavior. It proposes (a) that high efficacy enhances persistence in family problem solving, while low efficacy inhibits such efforts, and (b) that chronic low efficacy may lead to learned helplessness responses in family members. Drawing together the cognitive model of family conflict, the author discusses the joint impact of causal attributions and efficacy expectations on family conflict, then describes the two relevant research studies and discusses several implications of the model for family research and family therapy.
88 citations
TL;DR: In general, premarital counseling programs were found to be atheoretical in their approach to intervention, loosely designed and nonspecific as to their goals.
Abstract: Premarital counseling programs have been proliferating in the United States since their appearance in the 1930s. In order to evaluate the success such programs have had in preparing couples to build successful marriages, reduce the incidence of divorce and prevent unsuccessful marriages from occurring, the authors reviewed those programs which outlined standardized intervention procedures and utilized dependent measures to assess the program's effectiveness. Thirteen programs met these criteria. In general, premarital counseling programs were found to be atheoretical in their approach to intervention, loosely designed and nonspecific as to their goals.
52 citations
TL;DR: The use of the FES is illustrated by providing case descriptions of two typical families by using the scale to identify key areas of agreement and disagreement about actual and desired aspects of family functioning.
Abstract: The Family Environment Scale (FES) is being used clinically to facilitate assessment, intervention and evaluation of change in family therapy. This paper illustrates the use of the scale by providing case descriptions of two typical families. Discussion of each family member's real and ideal family environment serves to identify key areas of agreement and disagreement about actual and desired aspects of family functioning. This semi-structured procedure can focus each therapy session on specific interpersonal issues and encourage each family member to take an active part in discussing problems and formulating goals.
33 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a third method for determining the important content areas to be assessed in marital relationships was proposed. But the results showed that marital status, age, education, religion and income were not influential factors.
Abstract: This study expands upon factor-analytic and rational methods and introduces a third method for determining the important content areas to be assessed in marital relationships. Ninety-five women and 95 men provided definitions of a “good marriage.” These responses were content analyzed and yielded a 16-category outline of content areas. A number of areas were found through this method which add to those already present in the literature. They were verified through ratings of importance by a second sample of 26 married men and 32 married women. Analysis of demographic subgroup differences in the specified content areas showed that marital status, age, education, religion and income were not influential factors. Sex of the respondent was an influence for 25% of the areas.
33 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a technique for facilitating cognitive self-disclosure of relevant assumptions in a reciprocal manner to a supportive listener can facilitate a couple's level of intimacy, and a case is presented which demonstrates that a structured technique for selfdisclosure, modeling and cognitive restructuring as therapeutic factors are discussed.
Abstract: Intimacy is one of several interpersonal dimensions which describe the quality of a marital relationship. An operational definition of intimacy is presented. Evidence that a lack of intimacy is associated with nonpsychotic emotional illness, marital maladjustment and family dysfunction is reviewed. A technique is described which facilitates marital intimacy through self-disclosure. Evidence is presented that cognitive self-disclosure is a major determinant of a couple's level of intimacy. The assumption is made that facilitating cognitive self-disclosure will increase intimacy with subsequent improvement of neurotic symptoms and marital maladjustment. A case is presented which demonstrates that a structured technique for selfdisclosure of relevant assumptions in a reciprocal manner to a supportive listener can facilitate a couple's level of intimacy. The role of self-disclosure, modeling and cognitive restructuring as therapeutic factors are discussed.
31 citations
TL;DR: Factors related to attendance and continuation in family-oriented treatment at a child guidance clinic were related with chronicity of the presenting problem, nature of the referral source, initial clinical perceptions of the family and predictions about termination, and family attendance in evaluation and treatment sessions.
Abstract: This study investigated factors related to attendance and continuation in family-oriented treatment at a child guidance clinic. As expected, attendance and continuation were related with chronicity of the presenting problem, nature of the referral source, initial clinical perceptions of the family and predictions about termination, and family attendance in evaluation and treatment sessions. Attendance and continuation in treatment, however, were not related with family socioeconomic status and other demographic factors. The implications of these findings for treatment planning are discussed.
31 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated the effectiveness of a structured educational program designed to train premarital couples in communication and mutual problem-solving skills and found a significant increase in communication.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured educational program designed to train premarital couples in communication and mutual problem-solving skills. Twenty-six couples participated in an eight-week, 24-hour problem-solving training program, while 28 similar couples participated in an eight-week, 24-hour relationship discussion group. Results indicated that the problem-solving group, as compared to the relationship-discussion group, showed a significant increase in communication and mutual problem-solving skills. Discussion focused on the benefits for premarital couples of learning effective problemsolving procedures as well as the need for follow-up assessments of both behavioral skill level and relationship satisfaction and adjustment.
30 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, couples were randomly assigned to a Relationship Enhancement or Gestalt Relationship Facilitation treatment and each small-group treatment was conducted 2½ hours a week for 12 weeks.
Abstract: Thirty-six couples were randomly assigned to a Relationship Enhancement or to Gestalt Relationship Facilitation treatment. Each small-group treatment was conducted 2½ hours a week for 12 weeks. There were significant gains for the participants in both groups on all variables studied: marital adjustment, communication, trust and harmony, rate of positive change in the relationship, relationship satisfaction, and ability to handle problems. Relationship Enhancement participants achieved greater gains than Gestalt Relationship Facilitation participants in communication, relationship satisfaction, and ability to handle problems. The gains found—especially for the Relationship Enhancement treatment on these three variables, but for the other variables in both treatments as well—are viewed as valid and treatment specific.
25 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors propose data and process evaluation scales designed to determine family interactional style, conceptualized as a continuum ranging from centripetal (CP) to centrifugal (CF), containing at the midpoint a mixed area in which facets of both the CP and the CF styles are found.
Abstract: A consideration of interactional style is useful to both researchers and clinicians interested in family assessment. This paper offers data and process evaluation scales designed to determine family interactional style, conceptualized as a continuum ranging from centripetal (CP) to centrifugal (CF), and containing at the midpoint a mixed area in which facets of both the CP and the CF styles are found.
TL;DR: In this paper, a descriptive review of three treatment methods (individual, group and family therapy) used over a five-year period for child incest victims is presented, common themes, issues and pitfalls that arose during therapy are presented, and the potential benefits of psychotherapy to this population are stressed.
Abstract: A descriptive review of three treatment methods—individual, group and family therapy—used over a five-year period for child incest victims. Common themes, issues and pitfalls that arose during therapy are presented, and the potential benefits of psychotherapy to this population are stressed.
TL;DR: The use of poetry as an ancillary technique in couples groups is examined in this paper, where the use of reactions to a poem or song; the construction of collaborative and dyadic poems; and the development of images from dialogue.
Abstract: The use of poetry as an ancillary technique in couples groups is examined. In noting the use of the arts in family and group therapy, poetry is suggested as an additional method of facilitating group process and breaking down resistance with couples. While the use of poetry in therapy has been described elsewhere, it has received little attention with couples and family therapy. Some techniques described in this report include the use of reactions to a poem or song; the construction of collaborative and dyadic poems; and the development of images from dialogue. An example of a short-term couples group is presented. Therapists are cautioned about the limitations of the method, such as supporting intellectualizations. Utilized as a medium, poetry can be an aid to the therapist in helping clients express feelings and examine communication patterns.
TL;DR: A model for clinicians to use in evaluating the family with respect to custody is delineated and the values which guide the methods and recommendations are described.
Abstract: Over one million children in the United States were involved in child custody decisions in the past year (Glick, 1979). Mental health professionals have been increasingly employed in such decisions. In this paper, we will delineate a model for clinicians to use in evaluating the family with respect to custody and will describe the values which guide our methods and recommendations.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the relationship of family structure to psychosocial health in healthy and normal male adolescents and found that families of healthy adolescents have significantly more effective parental coalitions and generational boundaries than families of normal adolescents.
Abstract: This study investigates the relationship of family structure to psychosocial health in “Healthy” and “Normal” male adolescents. It attempts to identify behavioral patterns which differentiate the families of these two groups. The Family Structure Questionnaire, designed by the author, was used to interview families. Results show that families of Healthy Ss have significantly more effective parental coalitions and generational boundaries than families of Normal Ss. The factor found to be the most important to optimal psychosocial functioning is the nature of the parents' interaction with each other. This study indicates the importance of marital transactions for the establishment of parental coalitions and generational boundaries.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present research on the relationship of two family counseling models (one with temporary foster placement, one without) to the recidivism of run-away teenagers.
Abstract: This paper presents research on the relationship of two family counseling models (one with temporary foster placement, one without) to the recidivism of runaway teenagers. The study utilized a statistical measure, runaway recidivism in the three months following contact with a counseling center, as a means of evaluating program effectiveness. The Brief Family Intervention counseling model was shown statistically to be a viable tool in deterring repeated runaway episodes: Of the total test group of 81, only 7 of the 28 youth participating in three or more family counseling sessions ran away again during the follow-up period, whereas 28 of the 45 nonparticipants in counseling ran away during the follow-up (p<.01). Additional descriptive data provide a profile of the teenage runaway.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors used empirically derived dependent variables to differentiate typical conflict and accord discussions in a within-couples design and found that the most frequently cited behaviors as dependent variables were volume, criticism, disagreement and sarcasm.
Abstract: The purpose of the study was to determine if empirically derived dependent variables could be used to differentiate typical conflict and accord discussions in a within-couples design. In Part I, 180 undergraduates selected behavioral cues most indicative of conflict. The most frequently cited behaviors were used as dependent variables in Part II. Nineteen couples engaged in conflict and accord discussions on topics rated prior to and following discussions. Of seven dependent variables coded, four significantly discriminated conflict from accord discussions. Discriminators were volume, criticism, disagreement and sarcasm. Three variables which did not differentiate topics were swearing, rate of speech and gestures.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors compared two self-report instruments (Communication-Conflict Instrument and Marital Relationship Inventory) and found that happy couples had more loyalty to their communities, more energy for tasks, and more positive feelings about their lives.
Abstract: Theoretical literature is cited indicating that intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts are commingled and that both of these communicative processes are influential in marital relationships. Happily married couples and couples seeking counselor guidance were compared by using two self-report instruments (Communication-Conflict Instrument and Marital Relationship Inventory). Results from ANOVA comparisons supported two hypotheses, indicating that happy couples had predispositions for productively managing conflict; whereas, clinical couples had higher aggressiveness predispositions, which lessened their ability to manage conflict productively. Post-hoc t-test produced three differences between happy and clinical couples in their behavior and value orientations. Happy couples differed significantly from the counseling couples by having more loyalty to their communities, more energy for tasks, and more positive feelings about their lives. Marital relationship results confirmed previously cited re...
TL;DR: This article reviewed the published research on the psychological significance of names and name changes and found that little data pertain to the implications of a woman's changing or retaining her surname at marriage.
Abstract: Because the custom of wives assuming husbands' surnames at marriage is now in question, we reviewed the published research on the psychological significance of names and name changes. Although names and name changes are relevant psychological variables, little data pertain to the implications of a woman's changing or retaining her surname at marriage. Research on such implications would have relevance for individual personality development, marital and family relationships, and social and cultural systems.
TL;DR: In this paper, the meaning of the metaphor and metaphorical objects in the transactions between the therapist and the family or among the family members is analyzed. And analogies with hypnotic techniques are presented.
Abstract: The author analyzes the meaning of the metaphor, and especially some metaphorical objects, in the transactions between the therapist and the family or among the family members. He describes the use of the metaphor and explains his aims and the action mechanism by which he proposes to reach them. Analogies with hypnotic techniques are presented.
TL;DR: Adlerian family therapy emerges from the theory and practice of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs as mentioned in this paper, and the Adlerian assumption about the purposive nature of behavior, its social meaning, and how to resolve conflict are set forth.
Abstract: Adlerian Family Therapy emerges from the theory and practice of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs. The Adlerian assumption about the purposive nature of behavior, its social meaning, and how to resolve conflict are set forth. Each of the assumptions is illustrated with examples from the authors' family therapy cases. The competencies basic to Adlerian therapy—including influencing psychological movement, working with the family communication system, focusing on the real issue, aligning goals and dealing with resistance, stimulating social interest, encouragement, tentative hypotheses and antisuggestion—are set forth. A specific, pragmatic process for helping the family move towards change is presented.
TL;DR: In this paper, self-report data were obtained from 99 heterosexual, non-functional couples who were either married or living together and the dependent variable was total frequency of occurrence of 17 specific sexual activities.
Abstract: Self-report data were obtained from 99 heterosexual, nondysfunctional couples who were either married or living together. The dependent variable was total frequency of occurrence of 17 specific sexual activities. Four a priori hypotheses, reflecting social stereotypes regarding sexual behavior, were operationalized and tested. Of the seven independent variables measured, subjects' own level of enjoyment of sexual activities and their estimates of their partners' level of enjoyment were most highly correlated with behavior. Data for men and women were complementary: for men the best predictor of behavior was their estimate of their partners' level of pleasure; for women it was self-reported pleasure. These findings are interpreted in terms of culturally prescribed roles for lovemaking.
TL;DR: The interplay of interfamily and intra-family interaction in MFGT is described in this article, where the authors explore the possible significance of shifting parental dominance patterns from a peer-oriented, self-help perspective.
Abstract: The interplay of interfamily and intrafamily interaction in MFGT are described. Nine hospitalized patients and their families in ongoing MFGT were studied over 12 consecutive weekly 1½ hour sessions. Interactions were recorded and coded according to who spoke to whom. Results showed family members utilizing the intrafamily far more than the interfamily mode. When the interfamily mode was used, either mothers or fathers tended to dominate. When dominant, mothers talked more to other mothers, while fathers talked mostly to children or other fathers. The possible significance of shifting parental dominance patterns were explored from a peer-oriented, self-help perspective.
TL;DR: A family therapy model that utilizes the Bowen theory systems framework with the aged is presented, which is adapted to the family of procreation, which takes on increased importance in the lives of the elderly.
Abstract: This paper presents a family therapy model that utilizes the Bowen theory systems framework with the aged. Instead of seeking out the family of orientation, however, which is less significant to older family members who have fewer living siblings and parents, the framework is adapted to the family of procreation, which takes on increased importance in the lives of the elderly. A discussion of the older family member is followed by a brief explanation of the theoretical framework. The major thrust of the paper provides a description of the course of family therapy with the aged using this model. Included are the goals and outcomes of therapy, strategies for re-relating with other family members, and roles of the therapist and client. Research issues are discussed briefly. The expected outcomes of this model are the creation of more satisfying intergenerational relationships and the preservation and enhancement of independence for the aged.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated the effectiveness of a combined behavioral-reflective parent-training program with high school seniors and found that the course produced significant increments in behavioral and reflective parenting skills.
Abstract: The present study was an evaluation of the effectiveness of a combined behavioral-reflective parent-training program with high school seniors. Twenty-four high school seniors were randomly assigned to either a nineweek parent-training course or a waiting list control group. Lectures, films, class discussions, role-playing exercises and examinations were used to teach concepts of behavioral and reflective child rearing. Analysis of achievement tests and written and role-played analogue assessment measures indicated that the parent-training course produced significant increments in behavioral and reflective parenting skills. The results were discussed in the context of teenager's developmental readiness to cope with the tasks of parenthood.
TL;DR: The Redecision Family Therapy model further refines the technique by integrating the seemingly disparate methods of intrapsychic and systemic therapy, and discusses the results of an outcome survey.
Abstract: Intensive multiple family group therapy combines the advantages of group therapy with those of time-limited, goal-oriented approaches. Using the Redecision Family Therapy model further refines the technique by integrating the seemingly disparate methods of intrapsychic and systemic therapy. In this paper we describe our 10-year experience with this model, elaborate on the model itself and discuss the results of an outcome survey.
TL;DR: Maurizio andolfi as discussed by the authors discuss family therapy in europe: An interview with maurizios andolfis. The American Journal of Family Therapy: Vol. 9, No. 4, pp. 70-76.
Abstract: (1981). Family therapy in europe: An interview with maurizio andolfi. The American Journal of Family Therapy: Vol. 9, No. 4, pp. 70-76.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors illustrate how uncertainty, continued stress and the transient "commuter" role of the soldier in the Yom Kippur War led to psychological disequilibrium on both the individual and familial level.
Abstract: The present report illustrates how uncertainty, continued stress and the transient “commuter” role of the soldier in the Yom Kippur War led to psychological disequilibrium on both the individual and familial level. On the individual level such phenomena as anger outbursts, apathy, depression and secondary impotence were observed and reported. These were often relieved through group discussions in the soldier's unit about the universality of such reactions to stress. On the familial level regressive behaviors, disciplinary problems, spouse conflict and diffuse anxiety were among the phenomena reported. In group discussions with soldiers and their spouses, it was suggested that candid and clear communication about the father-soldier's whereabouts and the nature of his military duties were necessary to prevent regression and permit active coping behavior. Conflicting expectations and role change resulting from the war situation were discussed in terms of how these might affect the family's functioni...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors reported a study of satisfaction in couple relationships as related to a dimension referred to as social style, which considers the pattern of relationships in an individual's social network as partly the expression of personal needs and gratification patterns.
Abstract: This paper reports a study of satisfaction in couple relationships as related to a dimension referred to as social style. Social style considers the pattern of relationships in an individual's social network as partly the expression of personal needs and gratification patterns. The study confirmed the hypothesis that similarity in social style between couple partners is closely associated with reported satisfaction with the relationship, due, presumably, to more similar expectations for the nature of the relationship and for the partner's behavior.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe how imagery can lead couples to new and more constructive perspectives on the meaning of their interactions, and how to use imagery to understand their interactional patterns within their own developmental periods.
Abstract: In working with couples and families, the occasional clinical use of mental imagery techniques can frequently promote therapeutic breakthroughs. When sessions focused on a couple's (family's) current communication problems reach a point where progress seems slow and laborious, a therapist can encourage the couple (parents and perhaps even older children) to try one or more imagery sessions to understand their interactional patterns within the context of their own developmental periods. This article describes how imagery can lead couples to new and more constructive perspectives on the meaning of their interactions.