Frequency, severity, and evolution of split family alliances: How observable are they?

Authors: Muniz de la Pena, Cristina¹; Friedlander, Myrna¹; Escudero, Valentin²

Source: Psychotherapy Research, Volume 19, Number 2, March 2009 , pp. 133-142(10)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

Split alliances (within-family differences in the emotional bond with the therapist) were studied in 19 U.S. and 21 Spanish families using the System for Observing Family Therapy Alliances (SOFTA; Friedlander, Escudero, & Heatherington, 2006). Examining individual family members' scores on the corresponding self-report and observational Emotional Connection to the Therapist SOFTA scales, the authors identified mild, moderate, and severe split alliances. In both samples, self-reported splits occurred frequently and with almost all of the therapists. Although clients' observed interactions with the therapist often mirrored their self-reports, family members' perceptions of the therapeutic bond were generally more discrepant than their behavior suggested. The majority of families that dropped out had a moderately or severely split alliance in at least one session.

Keywords: couples and family systems therapy; psychotherapist training/supervision/development

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10503300802460050

Affiliations: 1: Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA 2: Department of Psychology, Universidad de La Coruna, La Coruna, Spain

Publication date: 2009-03-01