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Fitting a square peg in a square hole: Using metaphor in narrative therapy

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Abstract

This paper examines the assumptions of the narrative mode of therapy and the assumptions of therapeutic metaphors. The premise is that the use of metaphor fits the assumptions of narrative therapy and can enhance and expand narrative therapy. This paper examines the structure and types of metaphor, explores their fit within the narrative model, and gives three case examples which illustrate the use of metaphor in narrative therapy.

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Authors

Additional information

Kevin Lyness, MS, is a doctoral candidate, MFT Program, 1269 Fowler House, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1268, and a doctoral candidate in the MFT Program, Purdue University. Volker Thomas, PhD, is assistant professor, Marriage and Family Therapy Program, 1269 Fowler House, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1269. Reprint requests should be sent to the first author.

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Lyness, K., Thomas, V. Fitting a square peg in a square hole: Using metaphor in narrative therapy. Contemp Fam Ther 17, 127–142 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02249309

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