MITCHELLS RELATIONAL CONFLICT MODEL - AN ANALYSIS OF ITS USEFULNESS IN CLINICAL SOCIAL-WORK

This article examines the relational conflict model developed by Steph en A. Mitchell. The main concepts of Mitchell's relational conflict mo del are discussed, particularly early patterns of connection to parent al figures and the interactive treatment approach to understanding and changing those relational patterns. The model is contrasted with clas sical drive and developmental arrest theories in the psychodynamic tre atment of psychopathology. We explain how Mitchell's model, in keeping with a social work perspective, takes into consideration the social, cultural, and environmental factors as well as the intrapsychic. We di scuss how patterns of relating are reworked throughout the life course , and we explore the potential for individual agency in constructing n ew patterns of relating. We also highlight the social constructivist a spects of Mitchell's approach which are congruent with current contemp orary trends in social work theory. A case vignette is presented to il lustrate the viability of this model for clinical social work practice .