Analysis and Reflection: The Process of Change

Peggy Papp (1983), author of The Process of Change, argues forcefully that in family and marital therapy, it is inappropriate to separate theory from practice and vice versa. Integral to the delivery of potentially effective therapeutic interventions is the realization that behavior and attitudes are shaped by a variety of factors, many of which can be understood both theoretically and practically. Consequently, the effective therapist and therapy will move from a sound grounding in theory to practice using tools and techniques that have proven effective. This report will consider some of the central themes advanced by Papp (1983) and offer a personal reaction to these themes.

Papp (1983) positions the family or the married couple as a system, making full use of System Theory as a basic framework for therapeutic interventions. She also addresses the question of how change occurs in established systems and how resistance to change is a common problem encountered in the therapeutic milieu. Much of the text incorporates case vignettes to illustrate central theses advanced by Papp (1983) and other authors who contribute to the text.

Papp (1983) contends that the systems approach to therapy depends in large measure on the ability of the therapist to adopt and maintain a particular attitude toward change and to use that attitude therapeutically. If the family is seen as a self-regulating system and the symptoms it presents

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herapy involves a series of often quite drastic redefinitions that can change a family member's perceptions of their "presenting problem" and ultimately their perceptions of how the problem should and can be solved. These redefinitions can include revelations about both the self and the other members of the family system. Papp (1983) and others who contributed to the text state that it is important for the family or marital therapist to recognize that there is an ulterior level to the family that can only be understood and assessed gradually. In every system of human actors, there are hidden alliances, coalitions and contests that shape the overall set of interactions that the family maintains. These ulterior aspects of the system are often more significant than any superficial set of behaviors or attitudes. Families are also seen by Papp (1983) as creating specific myths, themes and identities that serve specific purposes. Some of these entities may support dysfunctional tendencies and distort individual perceptions. Others may be used to hide family problems and to divert attention from the "real" issues that must be addressed to return the family system to wellness and stability. It is also important to recognize tha
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Approximate Word count = 1334
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page)

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