Infusing Adlerian Theory into an Introductory Marriage and Family Course

Abstract

In this article, the authors examine the important contributions that Adlerian theory, also known as Individual Psychology, makes to the field of marriage andfamily counseling. Through the use ofopenforum family counseling, they provide a framework that shows ways Adlerian theory can be infused into an introductory marriage and family course, as well as introduced tofamily practitioners unfamiliar with the concepts. The authors address the pioneering role that Adler played in systems approach and discuss Adlerianfamily counseling regarding key concepts, assessment techniques, goals and treatment interventions. In addition, the authors share strategies to help individuals gain an understanding of their own family of origin from an Adlerian perspective and encourage them to practice their skills through role-plays and by co-counseling client families.