The Analysis of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy from a Clean Language Perspective
Journal Title: Journal of Experiential Psychotherapy - Year 2018, Vol 21, Issue 2
Abstract
Introduction: This paper compares and analyses Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) through the paradigm of Clean Language and Symbolic Modelling at three levels: intention, process and practice. Objectives: The aim is to identify specific similarities and differences between the two approaches in order for practitioners of both to mutually benefit. Methods: A high-level comparison of SFBT and Symbolic Modelling approaches; a line-by-line linguistic analysis of a representative SFBT transcript using models from Symbolic Modelling such as: ‘vectoring’, the Problem-Remedy-Outcome model and Clean Language; an examination of a sample of common Solution-Focus questions for metaphors, presupposition and ‘leading’ syntax, with alternative ‘cleaner’ versions provided. Results: Examples of similarities and differences between the two approaches at the level of intention, process and practice were identified. A selection of SFBT questions were modified to show how they could be cleaner, i.e. simpler, contain less therapist-introduced content (especially metaphors) and fewer leading presuppositions, giving the client a wider scope within which to answer. Areas of SFBT which could be given more attention in Symbolic Modelling were also identified. Conclusions: While Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Symbolic Modelling have broadly similar aims, these are often achieved by quite different means. With minor modifications, some of the basic principles, process and practices of Clean Language could be incorporated into Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and some of the methods of SFBT could be given more attention in Symbolic Modelling, while preserving the unique nature of both.
Authors and Affiliations
James Lawley, Penny Tompkins, Alexandru Ioan Manea
Keywords
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