Provides a model for categorizing marital and family skill training programs according to their theoretical orientation. Describes emotional, reasoning, and action approaches to intervention which allow counselors to examine the relationship between client characteristics and intervention approaches. (JAC)

Explicit marital negotiation is analyzed in terms of a three-stage model. Disparity between partners in possession of context variables influences bargaining strategies. The point is made that current negotiations have inevitably been influenced by prior bargaining and outcomes, and that current negotiations and outcomes provide the context for…

Reviews three primary ways in which law enforcement can affect relationships (organizational influences, peer/socialization influences, and police role influences). Identifies some common difficulties encountered by law enforcement couples and provides some basic goals and strategies for engaging them in treatment and addressing these issues in…

Describes how family sculpting, grounded in Experiential Family Counseling, can be used as a training technique in marriage and family counselor training programs. Provides detailed guidelines for conducting family sculpting. A case study is included. (Author/NB)

Reviews literature on complex ethical and legal issues that may arise in counseling families (defining the client, welfare and rights of individuals versus those of family system, informed consent and manipulative therapeutic techniques, family members who refuse to participate, confidentiality, and family values). Concludes with specific…

Presents flow chart of the process of psychotherapy with couples as way for practitioners to integrate various models of marital therapy into their treatment. Discusses sequentially basic steps and questions to be addressed; resolution of each stage is considered important for movement to following stages. Notes flow chart allows intervention…

Discusses coverage of relevant treatment areas for dual-career couples described in the literature. Includes a case example and analysis. Recommends an integrated multilevel approach because of the structural complexities and intricate psychological and interpersonal adaptations inherent in dual-career relationships. (ABL)

Describes structured marital separation, an intervention method designed to assist distressed marital couples during their critical period of decision making either to divorce or maintain the marriage. Presents a brief review of separation models and addresses separation counseling including: assessment, contracting, initial adjustment to…

Research investigating training in family therapy is scant. This paper describes existing models of training in marriage and family therapy, major issues pertinent to the evaluation of the effectiveness of such training, and suggests a methodology for such evaluation. (Author)

A three-stage model of marital enrichment designed to maximize valid effects and integrate participants' attitudinal and behavioral changes is presented. Goals of the three stages are differentiated; their advantages and limitations are discussed. Suggestions for well-designed research on the sequential model are presented. (Author)

An experienced therapist can be an effective witness in courtroom testimony. Unfortunately his expertise and objectivity are not always appreciated by the legal profession. Suggestions are given to help the therapist understand his rights and obligations as a professional witness. (JAC)

Evaluated admission and program requirements of 50 California-based programs in light of current legal and professional guidelines related to master's-level training programs in marriage and family therapy. Findings suggest that programs often depart significantly from ideals and suggested standards. (Author/ABL)

Presents model of marital interactions based on nature of fit between each spouse's belief systems, particularly those related to fears inherent in intimacy. Proposes that such interactions can be belief-confirming, lead to alienation, conflict, or unhappiness; or belief-disconfirming, leading to intimacy, successful conflict resolution, and…

Discusses specialization programs, typically consisting of one or two theory/overview courses housed within traditional counseling/therapy department, that offer introduction to marital and family therapy at master's level. Proposes alternative model that attempts to improve conceptual integration and skill development by offering an…

Explores marital and family therapy in treatment of Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), discussing role of family of origin in MPD development and role of nuclear family in its perpetuation. Suggests family and marital interventions, illustrating them with case examples. Proposes involving MPD client in marital or family therapy, in addition to…