How to Coach Yourself and Others Coaching Families | Page 262
PROBLEM TRACKING
Problem tracking involves tracing past behavioral transactions for the express purpose of noting probleminteraction sequences; however, problem tracking is not an end in itself. The use of problem-tracking
interactions goes back to the Mental Research Institute (Watzlawick, Weakland, & Fisch, 1974, pp. 110–115).
Postmodern therapy has since adopted the problem-tracking interaction strategy when it becomes necessary to
explore past interactive sequences. This strategy is often called into service when clients have difficulty
responding openly to basic questions or struggle to piece together the results of prior interviewing sequences.
Backtracking to past interactive behaviors that are related to the problem-maintaining patterns can offer notable
results. Problem tracking can often serve as a basis for returning to a present or future context for creating
solutions or dissolutions.
PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES
Problem solving is an effective therapy technique not because it teaches the family how to resolve the issue that
brought them to see the family systems psychologist, but it teaches them how to identify, develop plans and
create resolutions for future problems. Problem solving may seem like a common sense resolution, but it
requires a willingness on the parts of all parties to contribute to the solution.
Problem solving is a family therapy technique that requires effective communication and often comes later in
therapy sessions as the therapist challenges family members to role-play situations previously deemed
irresolvable. Family members may also be required to play the part of other family members, parents playing
the part of the children or dad taking on the role of mom to a child's dad and a mom's child. By actively role
playing other members of the family, each member is required to see that person's point of view. This leads to
learning how to disagree in positive and respectful manner and to not allow those disagreements to impede
problem solving efforts.
1. Dissolve the idea that there is a problem: Help people see their situations in new ways.
2. Negotiate a solvable problem: Reduce the size of the problem in the client’s eyes.
(Get specific about the problem; focus on when it is not so serious a problem).
3. Frame towards the idea that clients have all the abilities and resources to solve the problem:
Create an atmosphere that facilitates the realization of strengths and abilities.
PROBLEM DISSOLUTION
The point in the course of therapy when the client readily admits that the problem no longer exists and it
becomes apparent that the problem has been dissolved. This positive scenario is usually brought about by the
deconstructive efforts of deframing, whose thrust progressively eliminates the original impact of the problem to
the point where the problem evolves into a non-issue. This kind of outcome can and does occur with regular
frequency among postmodernist therapists, because their strategies and perspectives downplay pathology and
emphasize wellness.
PUNCTUATION
Punctuation is “the selective description of a transaction in accordance with a therapist’s goals”. Therefore it is
verbalizing appropriate behaviour when it happens.
Punctuation: thinking that you cause what I say.
PUTTING CLIENT IN CONTROL OF THE SYMPTOM
This technique, widely used by strategic family therapists, attempts to place control in the hands of the
individual or system. The therapist may recommend, for example, the continuation of a symptom such as
anxiety or worry. Specific directives are given as to when, where, and with whom, and for what amount of time
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