An Analysis of Dr. Phil's Advice About Relationships

Abstract

As marriage and family therapists, it is important to be familiar with the advice America is receiving from television's most popular therapist, Dr. Phil. Using feminist family therapy theory as the guiding lens, 28 episodes of Dr. Phil were analyzed. Findings from this study indicate that advice on the Dr. Phil show is conflicting; he encourages equal partnerships while simultaneously promoting stereotypical gender roles, a barrier to equality. Further results suggest that Dr. Phil maintains a detrimental neutral stance with couples reporting violence in their relationships. Implications for therapists are discussed.