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)

Replies to Taggart's response to Cottone's article on paradigms in marital and family therapy. Claims that ideally this debate will inspire further discussion and a relative consensus on marital and family therapy research. Summarizes seven points of contention and disputes each. Concludes that both authors have high hopes for marital and family…

Five married couples in counseling and five couples not in counseling rated family members on 25 attribute scales. Analyzed similarities derived from ratings through ordinal Euclidian multidimensional scaling, yielding family structure maps. Maps revealed that counseling subjects saw themselves as less similar to spouses and saw need for spousal…

Examined marital therapy strategies of reflection and reframing on spouses' immediate patterns of relating, and investigated therapists' choice of technique immediately following different spousal interactions. Coded 628 pre- and post-intervention sequences from 13 therapy cases. Therapists chose reflection following defensive behaviors; reframing…

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…