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What does it mean to be relational? A framework for assessment and practice

  • Rachelle Silverstein
  • , Linda Buxbaum Bass
  • , Amy Tuttle
  • , Carmen Knudson-Martin
  • , Douglas Huenergardt

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The authors begin with a question regarding how to better draw upon relational thinking in making case assessments and treatment plans. They first address issues regarding the cultural construction of self and relationships, integrating women's psychology, family systems, and collectivist culture literatures within a discussion of power. Then they present a heuristic framework for how individuals orient themselves within relationships that includes two dimensions - focus and power - and evolves out of the social context. From these two dimensions, a typology of four basic relational orientations is presented; position directed, rule directed, independence directed, and relationship directed. Case examples from couple's therapy and suggestions for practice are provided.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)391-405
Number of pages15
JournalFamily Process
Volume45
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2006

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Social Sciences (miscellaneous)

Keywords

  • Assessment
  • Couples Therapy
  • Gender
  • Relational Therapy
  • Social Context

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