How to Coach Yourself and Others Coaching Families | Page 150

Behavioural & Conjoint Family Therapy
Family therapists following a communications approach to family therapy hold the view that accurate
communication is the key to solving family problems. (Conjoint family therapy = The involvement of two
or more members of a family in therapy at the same time.)
An open and honest manner of communicating rather than using phony or manipulative roles characterizes
good problem-solving families.

Matching intent and impact of communication.
Gottman built his approach on matching intent and impact of communication.
He used a behavioural interviewing method to teach people about what they are doing that is not working
and to help them correct the situation by learning how to get the impact they want from their
communication.
His stages include
1) exploration,
2) identification of goals,
3) perceptions of issues,
4) selection of one issue for discussion,
5) an analysis of interactions,
6) negotiation of a contract.
Virginia Satir considered herself a detective who helps children figure out their parents. She thought 90% of
what happens in a family is hidden. The family's needs, motives, and communication patterns are included
in this 90%.
She believed that whatever people are doing represents the best they are aware of and the best they can do.
She considered people geared to surviving, growing, and developing close relationships with others.
Self-esteem plays a prominent role in Satir's system.
She viewed mature people as being in touch with their feelings, communicating clearly and effectively, and
accepting differences in others as a chance to learn.
She &VƖWfV@