MRI Approach

Question 1

Foundation of MRI (4)

Answer 1

1. General Systems Theory
2. Cybernetics - both (1) (2)
   - relationship is whole to sum of its parts
   - positive feedback (increases change or dysfunction) & negative feedback (decreases, keeping system in set norms)
   - can reach same point from different paths
3. Communication Theory
   - all behavior communicates (what is said to you matters from WHO it comes from)
4. Erickson’s Method
   - change the action or change the context to break from habitual patterns
   - unconsciousness at seat of wisdom & creativity
   - therapist responsible for changing client

Question 2

How Symptoms Develop? (4)

Answer 2

• trapped in dysfunctional, homeostatic patterns
• the attempted solution is the problem
• problems arise out of ordinary life
• families stuck in positive feedback loops (escalation)

Question 3

Normal Family Development (1)

Answer 3

• doesn’t regard any particular way of functioning, relating or living as a problem especially if client isn’t expressing discontent

Question 4

Goals of Therapy (3)

Answer 4

• to break family’s repetitive, negative cycle (break the feedback loop)
• 2nd order change is sought where system’s structure/function change
• 1st order change regarded as “cosmetic fix”, unlikely to last

Question 5

Therapy Process (4)

Answer 5

1. Identify more of the same, positive feedback loops that maintain problem
2. Identify the rules that support problem
3. Find a way to change rules (2nd order change)
4. The amount of “stuckness” determines the type of intervention

Question 6

Interventions (4)

Answer 6

1. Prescribe the symptom (reverse psychology)
2. Relabeling (reframe a problem as not a problem)
3. Out-positioning (exaggerate problem)
4. Restraining (change takes time to happen, go slowly)

Question 7

MRI Brief Therapy - How Symptoms Develop? (3)

Answer 7

1. Family DENIES that problem exists. Action is necessary but not taken.
2. Family creates a problem that isn’t really a problem.
3. Tries to solve problem w/in framework. Action is taken at wrong level and is never resolved (1st order change)

Question 8

MRI Brief Therapy - Goals of Therapy (1)

Answer 8

• resolution of presenting problem

Question 9

MRI Brief Therapy - Therapy set-up (2)

Answer 9

• who is seen: those who are motivated to attend

- role of therapist: responsible for change and is seen as part of the family

Question 10

MRI Brief Therapy - Therapy Process (2)

Answer 10

• short duration (10 sessions)

- “thinks small”, satisfied with minor but progressive changes