Getting and giving information: analysis of a family-interview strategy

Area of Science:

• Family Therapy
• Communication Theory

Background:

• The Selvini-Palazzoli model utilizes a two-part interview structure.
• The first part involves information gathering, followed by intervention.
• Therapist's implicit criteria during information retrieval significantly impact the system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine information retrieval strategies within the Selvini-Palazzoli interview.
• To analyze the impact of these strategies on information quality and therapist's conveyed criteria.
• To apply communication theories, specifically conversational analysis, to understand the interview dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Videotape analysis of specific aspects of the two-part interview.
• Application of conversational analysis to examine therapist-client interactions.
• Focus on information retrieval segments to understand strategy and impact.

Main Results:

• Information retrieval strategies significantly influence the quality of data gathered.
• Therapist's implicit criteria during information gathering shape the therapeutic system.
• Conversational analysis offers a different theoretical lens compared to systems theory.

Conclusions:

• Understanding information retrieval is crucial for effective family therapy interventions.
• Therapist's communication strategies in the initial phase have profound effects.
• Conversational analysis provides valuable insights into the dynamics of the Selvini-Palazzoli interview.