ATTENTION AND TRIADIC COMMUNICATION - SEQ UENTIAL-ANALYSIS OF GAZE FORMATIONS IN THERAPIST COUPLE TRIAD

We analysed the gaze formations of therapist-couple triads observed in a semi-structured situation. We applied the lag sequential analysis ( Sackett, 1979) to the successive triadic gaze configurations. We discu ss the choice of this method and present the results of its applicatio n on a first sample of seven triads. Results show that the sequential organization of gazes can be differenciated in two types depending upo n the alliance in the couple and between couple and therapist. We inte rpret them in terms of different modes in the regulation of exchanges. The therapist's influence in this process is also discussed.