The effective use of enactments in family therapy: A discovery-oriented process study

In this investigation we examine the elements of enactments-in-session dial ogues used to observe and modify family interactions in structural family t herapy. Twenty-one videotaped segments of 18 therapy sessions with differen t families were used to compile detailed descriptions of therapist techniqu es and client responses. Enactments were analyzed as consisting of three di stinct phases-initiation, facilitation and closing-each of which required m ore numerous and complex interventions than are usually described in the cl inical literature. Judges were able to reliably describe therapist interven tions that led to successful enactments as well as what therapists did or f ailed to do that led to unproductive outcomes. Clinical implications of the se findings are discussed.