Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026

The Other End of the Leash: An Experimental Test to Analyze How Owners Interact with Their Pet Dogs
Published on: October 13, 2017
Problematic within-family alliances in conjoint family therapy: a close look at five cases
Jessica E Lambert1, Alyson H Skinner, Micki L Friedlander
1University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Pkwy., Colorado Springs, CO 80903, USA. jlamber2@uccs.edu
Abstract:
We intensively analyzed five sessions in which the within-family alliance was manifestly problematic and family members reported discrepant perceptions of the family's sense of purpose about working together in therapy. Triangulation of observer ratings with (a) session content, (b) participants' post-session perceptions, (c) therapists' alliance-related interventions, and (d) clients' pretreatment target complaints and problem descriptions suggested three essential, interrelated aspects of the within-family alliance: family members (a) agreeing on the problem(s) and goals for treatment, (b) feeling connected in coping with their concerns ("a felt unity"), and (c) seeing conjoint therapy as valuable. Within-family disagreements on any of these aspects seemed to account for the observed in-session struggles. The analysis also suggested several missed opportunities for strengthening the within-family alliance.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
In- and Out-Groups
Elements Crucial for Effective Psychotherapy
The Therapeutic Alliance
The therapeutic alliance refers to the relationship between the therapist and the client. The alliance strengthens when the therapist and the client engage in a nurturing, supportive, trusting, empathetic, and respectful relationship, improving therapeutic outcomes. Therapists must monitor this relationship...
Family Therapy
Strategic Family Therapy
Strategic family therapy emphasizes resolving communication barriers and improving problem-solving abilities...
Couples Therapy
Core Principles and Techniques
Couples therapy often incorporates cognitive-behavioral principles to identify and modify negative...
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Relationship with Other Adult Family Members and Siblings

