Explores the possibilities for the therapeutic process of adopting a social constructionist perspective. Topics covered in this text include the theoretical basis for social constructionist therapy, and various approaches in practice, such as irreverant therapy and the not-knowing therapist.
An overview of this branch of psychotherapy through an examination of the historical, philosophical, and ideological aspects, as well as discussion of specific clinical practices and actual case studies. Includes transcripts from therapeutic sessions. The authors work in family therapy in Chicago. Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
`An interesting collection of the state of the art of social constructionism and therapy, and a major contribution to reflection on therapeutic theory and practice′ - Changes `The chapters are interesting as windows into wider debates beyond therapy to those within the human sciences over the organization of meaning and change in culture... the value of this book is that it makes it possible for the reader to step back and think that therapy may mean different things to different communities, that therapy is not the touchstone but only one of many social constructions′ - British Psychological Society Counselling Psychology Review This volume explores the exciting possibilities for the therapeutic process of adopting a social constructionist perspective. A key concern is with socially constructed lives. Our senses of self, identity and life purpose are socially and culturally embedded, but no single cultural `script′ proves all-powerful. In social constructionist therapy, client and therapist work to co-create new, more satisfactory `stories′ in ways which recognise their social, relational character. The book firstly examines the theoretical basis for this process. It also looks at the implications for client-therapist relationships and discusses various approaches in practice, including `irreverent therapy′, the `not-knowing therapist′ and the role of reflexivity. A number of case studies are presented. The final section offers an exhilarating mix of overview, self-critique and agenda for the future.
This volume brings together noted clinicians to offer practical ways of using narrative techniques in therapy. The ideas presented build upon the first wave of narrative thinking that has influenced the field for the past decade. A range of timely topics are covered including sections of dialogue with the authors to demonstrate how these therapies are carried out. Both clinicians and graduate students alike should find this book of value.
Relational Responsibility replaces traditional ideas on individual responsibility by giving centre stage to the relational process thereby replacing alienation with meaningful dialogue.
This book is a comprehensive introduction to social constructionist ideas and their application within the psychological therapies. Whether you are a trainee or qualified therapist, this book will support you to think about therapy as a socially constructed and relational process, and to develop as a more culturally, socially and politically aware practitioner. It advocates for ‘therapist activists’ who understand the interplay between the micro and the macro in therapeutic contexts and debunks the idea of the ‘isolated client’ to examine how broader societal conditions create problems for the individual. Chapters are designed to engage, offering a variety of features to support learning, including: - Introductory and concluding chapter summaries - Textboxes summarising content & spotlighting key information - Case studies and vignettes throughout - Reflective questions & thought-provoking exercises - Recommended Further Reading. This book has wide applicability, with author affiliations across both North and South America - the University of New Hampshire in the US and the Federal University of Uberlandia in Brazil.
"Remains an authoritative overview of the field, but is now markedly more accessible. It will be invaluable to students and scholars looking for a sustained and engaging inquiry into the premises and practices of social constructionism." - Dr Matthew Adams, University of Brighton "Kenneth Gergen elegantly presents his constructionist ideas in a style that is both relational and inviting, and, at the same time, comprehensive and thorough. By tracing the history of his ideas, he provides a blueprint for others to follow by including further reflections and additional references. Dr Gergen once again has paved the way for innovative, relational, and ethical ways of thinking about pedagogy, research and practice. I strongly recommend this outstanding book for child and youth care practitioners, social workers, counselors, mediators and psychologists." - Marie Hoskins, Professor, School of Child and Youth Care, Faculty of Human and Social Development, University of Victoria "This aptly titled book provides an accessible theoretical introduction to social constructionism applicable to numerous fields: therapy, education, research. As a teacher of Family Therapy, this book provides a foundation for understanding social constructionist therapy models and research and adds depth to my students understanding of these models." - Kevin Lyness, Antioch University Reflecting the significant developments in constructivist thought and practice, the Second Edition of An Invitation to Social Construction has been thoroughly revised and updated with material on major new areas such as discourse analysis, action research, the body and environmentalism. While still preserving the celebrated wide-ranging and profound approach of the first, the Second Edition, now with pedagogical features throughout, is even more accessible for students.
This significant volume brings together noted clinicians to offer practical ways of using narrative and other discursive methods of therapy. The innovative ideas presented build upon the social constructionist thinking that has influenced the field for the past decade. It covers topics such as addressing violence, discursive research, and "dialogues" with the authors to demonstrate how these therapies are carried out. Both clinicians and graduate students will find this book of great value.
Annotation The third edition ofAn Introduction to Family Therapyprovides an overview of the core concepts informing family therapy and systemic practice, covering the development of this innovative field from the 1950s to the present day. The book considers both British and International perspectives and includes the latest developments in current practice, regulation and innovation, looking at these developments within a wider political, cultural and geographical context. The third edition also contains:A new chapter on couple therapyA new chapter on practice development up to 2009Sections highlighting the importance of multi-disciplinary practice in health and welfareLists of key texts and diagrams, suggested reading organized by topic, and practical examples and exercises are also used in order to encourage the reader to explore and experiment with the ideas in their own practice. This book is key reading for students and practitioners of family therapy and systemic practice as well as those from the fields of counselling, psychology, social work and the helping professions who deal with family issues.
Examines postmodernism and its expression in family therapy, raising questions about realities and realness, the subjective process of truth, and the experience of self.