Paradoxical Interventions Research Articles

Types of paradoxical intervention and indications/contraindications for use in clinical practice.

A review of theoretical mechanisms underlying paradoxical interventions is undertaken in an effort to classify them into three broad types: redefinition, symptom escalation and crisis induction, and redirection. A list of individual and family patient characteristics and problems particularly applicable to each type of paradoxical intervention is presented along with contraindications for use. Last, implications for training and cautions as to their use are presented.

Paradox in alcoholism.

This work focuses upon paradoxical aspects of alcoholism. Current information suggests that double-binding dynamics exist in alcoholism and that paradoxical life-style themes do contribute to alcoholism abuse. Emphasis in this paper is focused upon the utilization of paradoxical dynamics within a therapeutic framework. It is suggested that treatment interventions must effectively alter negative paradoxical patterns operating in the alcoholic's life-style. Recent clinical findings are cited, and therapeutic uses of paradoxical and reframing and interventions are discussed.

Ambivalence and how to turn it to your advantage: adolescence and paradoxical intervention

The concept of ambivalence illuminates our understanding of intrapsychic functioning in adolescence. However, understanding alone does not enable us to achieve our therapeutic goals. We need to develop specific strategies and techniques. Paradoxical and allied types of communication are of value in intrapsychic conflict as much as with interpersonal dilemmas. This paper explores the means of dealing with disturbed behaviour based on adolescent ambivalence.

The Family Rule Concept in the Theory of Family Therapy: Part II**

In the second part of this paper the author traces the processes by which it is possible to learn rule conforming behaviours without necessarily being able to formulate the rule or see any point in the rule; the rule is followed blindly. In following a rule blindly a person may nevertheless be engaged in a practice which has a systemic function; he argues that when we positively connote symptomatic behaviours in the process of making paradoxical systemic interventions, we should avoid any suggestion that the family members are acting deliberately with the goal of “helping” in mind.

The utilization and limitations of paradoxical intervention in group psychotherapy.

The utilization and limitations of paradoxical intervention in group psychotherapy.

'Paradox: a pivotal point in therapy'

This paper describes a family who had been known to the professional caring agencies for some five years. At the time of treatment, the family had fifteen-year old twin sons whose frequently aggressive behaviour was the focus of the referred problem. It was agreed that the author would attempt to work with this family should they be re-referred, with a view to offering an alternative mode of treatment. A structural framework of therapy was tried, but very shortly therapeutic attempts to help solve the problems were assimilated by the family and seemed to serve only to ensure their continuation. At this point, a powerful paradoxical intervention was tried in order to free both family and therapists from perpetuating a ‘more of the same’. This tactic allowed time for treatment from a more structural base to continue. In this context, consideration is given to the nature of pathological and therapeutic double binding. Some of the difficulties inherent in attempting new methods of treatment from within a traditional casework setting with its statutory responsibilities are also discussed.

What is Done in Trust Conditions Underlying the Success of Paradoxical Interventions

The author describes the sort of transactions that must occur between patient and therapist if paradoxical interventions are to succeed. This article gives examples of how therapists may use their positive Parent ego state to influence patients to accept paradoxical instructions when such instructions seem warranted.

Treatment of Temper Tantrums by a Paradoxical Intervention

In the present case, a paradoxical intervention was employed in the treatment of a 4‐year‐old boy for temper tantrums. Temper tantrums, which had been a daily occurrence, disappeared entirely after the second session. A follow‐up at nine months indicated there had been no further tantrums.