Experimentally examined how therapist sex role behaviors and subject sex roles influence perceptions of cotherapists conducting marital therapy. Analyzed the relationship between perceived therapist competence and verbal dominance, the effectiveness of traditional and nontraditional sex role styles, and sex-type related to preference for female…

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)

Treatment of the divorced father usually follows four phases. The first phase deals with the immediate crisis of separation. The second centers on the experience of loss and dependency needs. Phase three examines beliefs, values, and social realities. Phase four focuses on issues of parenthood. There is considerable overlap. (Author)

Presents a theoretical approach with some practical strategies for resolving marital and family conflicts. The steps are: owning one's position, understanding the other person's position, and resolving the conflict. The method serves as a model resulting in the development of more effective communicators and communication patterns. (Author/BEF)

The author's system of premarital counseling and examination consists of four visits before marriage and one after. These visits are for introducing the contractual elements of marriage; taking medical histories and physical examinations; introducing a program for beginning marriage; and resolving problems in the early weeks of marriage. (BP)

Presents a discussion of the linguistic mechansim of nominalization. In identifying and challenging nominalizations, the counselor can help a couple clarify the present state of their relationship, where they are hurting, the desired state of their relationship, and the feeling and behavioral changes they want in their relationship. (Author)

In counseling groups, uncoupling partners learn to say their good-byes and accept the death of the marriage. They complete their unfinished business with each other. An organizational strategy is necessary. Skill in helping partners uncouple is a vital function of a marriage counselor, who must be proficient in group counseling. (Author)

Examines reports of marital problems from couples at different stages of the life course. Results indicated that presenting problems were generally the same, regardless of whether the couple was newly married, in the childbearing years, or married over a decade. Moreover, wives reported more problems in the their relationships than did husbands,…

This article reflects a review of research relevant to family systems training and the use of films in the teaching of family systems theory. Advantages and disadvantages of using movies in an introductory-level graduate family therapy course are discussed. An outline of family therapy training objectives, as well as examples of a movie-based…

Presents the need for integration of mutual client-therapist collaboration into the process of genogram construction and demonstrates through case examples how such integration enhances the therapeutic power of the genogram. Suggests possible changes in the training of marriage and family therapists in order for such integration to become more…

Addresses the importance of a basic understanding of neuroscience in marital, couple, and family therapy training and practice. Examines the biological and physiological processes underlying emotions, memory, and neurochemistry, and emphasizes their impact on behavior. (Contains 20 references.) (GCP)

Presents an interview with Dr. John M. Gottman, one of the most prolific researchers/authors in marriage and family therapy. Specific topics addressed include: Gottman's family of origin and career influences; his research on meta-emotions and marital conflict; psychoeducation versus marital therapy; and future goals. (GCP)

Distressed couples (N=15) were randomly assigned to group, conjoint, or waiting list conditions. Behavioral communication treatment package administered over eight sessions and was evaluated via multidimensional assessments was found to be highly effective modality for resolution of marital dysfunction. Both group and conjoint treatments were…

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)

The impact of geographic relocation on a married couple and their son with cerebral palsy is discussed. Counseling helped the family to adjust to their new community and resolve such problems as lack of family or friends nearby and the boy's acceptance in a more competitive school where he initially had no friends. (JDD)