Systems-Oriented, Small Group, Family-of-Origin Family Therapy: A Comparison with Traditional Group Psychotherapy
Keywords:
Group Psychotherapy, Family-of-Origin Family TherapyAbstract
This paper extends the explanation of a method of family therapy intended for resolution of family-of-origin issues, developed by the
senior author (Williamson, 1981, 1982a, 1982b) in order to focus on the very small group process utilized. A recent conceptualization of intergenerational family issues, believed to occur in the fourth decade of the adult life-cycle, is summarized. Secondly, the small group methodology developed for working with these issues is described. Finally, this group method is compared, in terms both of similarities and important contrasts, with traditional group psychotherapy methods. It is concluded that the small group method described is the most effective way yet devised to practice family-of-origin family therapy.
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