Destructive Myths in Family Therapy

Each family has unique communication habits, yet beneath surface differences common communication patterns arise. Many patterns are healthy, promoting communication that is honest, authentic and tactful. Sometimes, however, habitual responses can develop: 'myths' that become entrenched in the language of an individual family. These Family Defence Mechanisms (FDMs) block healthy communication, instead raising barriers and creating distance. With time pressures at an all-time high and family members spending less time interacting with each other than ever, snippets of homespun wisdom--it's better not to talk about it; better the devil you know-- become dangerously easy to present as fact. Combining humanist and existentialist perspectives in a new understanding of family dynamics, Destructive Myths in Family Therapy exposes a range of common FDMs, exploring how they can become ingrained negative part of family culture and suggesting strategies for overcoming them. The healthy strategies and group activities in Destructive Myths in Family Therapy engage families in better interaction, helping therapists be better equipped to help clients 'see' the barriers they unconsciously place in the way of change, 'say' things that facilitate resolution rather than resistance, and establish authentic, direct communication within their family unit.