theory: narrative and solution-focused therapy Flashcards
Two Postmodern Theories:
narrative and solution-focused
social constructionism
A theory that refers to an individual making meaning of knowledge within a social context
strengths-based perspective
A multicultural counseling approach that focuses on honing in and building on client strengths and successes to initiate change
Narrative Therapy
A postmodern and social constructionist approach developed by Michael White and David Epston; concerned with how individuals author their lives, proposing that people construct stories about themselves and their lives. Encourage people to reauthor their problem-saturated stories in order to promote greater wellness.
Michael White
With David Epston, developed narrative therapy, a postmodern and social constructionist approach
David Epston
With Michael White, developed narrative therapy, a postmodern and social constructionist approach.
self-narratives
In narrative therapy, the stories clients construct about themselves and their lives. Self-narratives assist clients in developing a consistent identity. Thin descriptions refer to internalized self-narratives that are imposed on a person by others (e.g., society). Thick descriptions refer to more complex self-narratives that involve both the client’s interpretations of themselves and the labels that are put on them by others
problem-saturated stories
A term used in narrative counseling to refer to self-narratives that are harmful and detrimental to client well-being.
dominant narratives
Narratives involving cultural customs that affect a client’s life and worldview.
thin description
A self-narrative that is imposed on a person by others (e.g., society) that the individual then internalizes.
thick description
A self-narrative that involves clients’ interpretations of themselves and the labels that are put on them by others
problem externalization
A technique used in narrative therapy in which the counselor seeks to help clients distance themselves from their problems. Problems, in relation to clients, are seen as a separate, outside entity. Counselors use externalizing questions (e.g., “How has depression been holding you back these past few months?”) to separate the problem from the client.
seek unique outcomes
A technique used in solution-focused brief therapy that asks clients to identify times when their problems were not present or were less pronounced
outside witness
A technique used in solution-focused therapy that involves bringing in family members, friends, or even previous clients to help current clients gain outside perspectives on themselves.
definitional ceremony
A technique used in narrative therapy, in which clients tell their new stories to an audience of outside witnesses
