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Areas of resistance in the beginning phase of family therapy

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Abstract

When family therapy is undertaken with a family that seeks treatment for a child as an “identified patient”, gaining access to the family is often a venture fraught with anxiety and considerable resistance. At the beginning of family therapy, the risk of losing families is probably the greatest, yet little research directed at the problems involved has been reported. To encourage more interest, this phase is explored from the perspective of therapist behavior. Three areas are examined, and consideration is given to the strategies and techniques used to reduce resistance and facilitate engagement in treatment. Research needs are pointed out.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Mental Health Study Center IRP, National Institute of Mental Health, 2340 University Blvd. E., 20783, Adelphi, Maryland

    Fortune V. Mannino Ph.D. (Assistant Chief)

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  1. Fortune V. Mannino Ph.D.
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Mannino, F.V. Areas of resistance in the beginning phase of family therapy. International Journal of Family Therapy 6, 3–12 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00924360

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00924360

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