Unraveling Power Issues in Couples Therapy

Abstract

This qualitative study explored approaches to addressing power and inequity issues in therapy with cross-gender couples. In-depth interviews were conducted with an expert panel of 15 feminist family therapists to examine the components of such approaches. Grounded theory procedures were used to analyze patterns and themes that emerged from the data. Categories were generated that detail both the descriptions of power issues the respondents believe are significant in cross-gender relationships as well as strategies for addressing power issues. This paper details the strategies family therapists can employ to accomplish the difficult task of broaching power in therapeutic work with couples. A central thesis is that feminist family therapists must employ a lens broader than one that simply includes the personal domestic encounters of relationships. The social politics of male-female relationships must also be captured.