Countering the Isomorphic Study of Isomorphism: Coercive, Mimetic, and Normative Isomorphic Trends in the Training, Supervision, and Industry of Marriage and Family Therapy

Abstract

This theoretical piece explores the ways in which the study of isomorphism by the marriage and family therapy (MFT) field has taken on a narrow or isomorphic form. It also outlines discussion points for addressing isomorphic structures in clinical supervision from an interdisciplinary perspective. This study examines the MFT field as an industry and draws upon sociological theory to explore three differing types of isomorphic structures in the MFT field: coercive, mimetic, and normative isomorphism. The author outlines his supervisory experience employing the three forms of isomorphic trends during supervision of 65 practicum/field placement students over a seven-year period (2000–2007).