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The vulnerability cycle: working with impasses in couple therapy.
Michele Scheinkman1, Mona Dekoven Fishbane
1Roberto Clemente Center, New York, NY, USA. michelescheinkman@hotmail.com
Family Process
|September 25, 2004
Summary
This study introduces the vulnerability cycle to understand and resolve couples' impasses. It integrates various dimensions to help couples build resilience and foster positive change through collaborative therapeutic approaches.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Family Therapy
- Relationship Science
Background:
- Couples often face impasses stemming from reciprocal interactional patterns.
- Existing models may not fully capture the complex interplay of factors contributing to relationship difficulties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the vulnerability cycle as a novel construct for understanding couples' impasses.
- To expand interactional concepts by incorporating behavioral and subjective dimensions.
- To articulate processes that trigger and maintain relationship entanglements.
Main Methods:
- Conceptualizing the vulnerability cycle as a nexus integrating "vulnerabilities" and "survival positions."
- Utilizing a vulnerability cycle diagram as an organizational tool for information.
- Proposing a therapeutic approach for deconstructing impasses and facilitating new patterns.
Main Results:
- The vulnerability cycle integrates interactional, sociocultural, intrapsychic, and intergenerational levels.
- Specific processes that trigger and maintain couples' entanglements are identified.
- A therapeutic approach involving questioning, freeze-frame techniques, and promoting reflection is suggested.
Conclusions:
- The vulnerability cycle provides a framework for understanding and addressing couples' impasses.
- Therapeutic interventions can facilitate new patterns, empathy, and choice in relationships.
- Collaborative work between therapist and couple promotes change and resilience.