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Making a difference in making miracles: common roadblocks to miracle question effectiveness
Sandra M Stith1, Marjorie Strachman Miller, Jeremy Boyle
1Kansas State University, Family Studies and Human Services, 101 Campus Creek Complex, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA. sstith@ksu.edu
Journal of Marital and Family Therapy
|April 20, 2012
Summary
Beginning therapists struggle with the miracle question (MQ), facing challenges in its introduction, framing, and follow-up. Training improvements are recommended for effective MQ utilization in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Therapeutic Interventions
Background:
- The miracle question (MQ) is a key technique in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
- Effective implementation of the MQ is crucial for novice therapists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate challenges faced by student-therapists when using the miracle question (MQ).
- To identify common difficulties in introducing, framing, and following up on the MQ.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of transcribed role-play videotapes from six student-therapists.
- Qualitative coding of transcripts to identify thematic challenges.
Main Results:
- Student-therapists encountered significant difficulties with the MQ's application.
- Key challenges included initial introduction, appropriate framing, and effective follow-up of the MQ.
Conclusions:
- Beginning therapists require targeted training to overcome MQ implementation barriers.
- Recommendations are provided to enhance therapist education in using the MQ effectively.
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