Conceptual and Application Considerations of Emotionally Focused Therapy With White Heterosexual Working-Class Rural Males

Abstract

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is an empirically supported approach to couple’s therapy and offers a clear structure and map for working with this population. There are few publications in the research literature that focus on White heterosexual working-class rural males in coupled relationships. This article offers several specific applications and a case conceptualization to demonstrate EFT with this population. Specific responses to stressors affecting the therapeutic relationship involve normalizing the help-seeking process, exploring the impact of alexithymia, and unearthing how hegemonic masculinity has affected emotional expression. EFT is effective for work with White heterosexual working-class rural males in monogamous coupled relationships because of its focus on the attachment bond. EFT builds a secure relationship foundation for the individual and the couple to explore the impact of masculinity within the relationship.