Question 1

A narrative therapist would maintain that Ruth's problems can best be understood:

Accepted Answer

Narrative therapy focuses on understanding problems within their socio-cultural and relational contexts. It emphasizes that individuals are not essentially problematic but rather have problems that are influenced by external factors such as culture, society, and relationships. Therefore, a narrative therapist would likely view Ruth's problems as being rooted in larger socio-cultural and relational contexts rather than individual cognitive distortions or parental contributions.

Question 2

Which of the following is something the solution-focused therapist tends to avoid in working with Ruth?

Accepted Answer

The solution-focused therapist tends to avoid talking about the client's symptoms and promoting insight. Instead, the focus is on identifying the client's strengths and finding exceptions to the problem.

Question 3

Narrative therapists believe that "The person is not the problem, but the problem is the problem." This phrase illustrates which of the following interventions that is likely to be made with Ruth?

Accepted Answer

This phrase is a hallmark of externalizing conversations in narrative therapy, where problems are viewed as separate from the person. This approach helps clients to objectify and thus more effectively address their issues.

Question 4

The social constructionist therapist working with Ruth:

Accepted Answer

The social constructionist therapist sees herself as a non-expert and views her expertise in language and meaning. She also proposes that reality is created in language between people. Therefore, all of the above choices are correct.

Question 5

A narrative therapist's work with Ruth would be based on the assumption that:

Accepted Answer

Narrative therapy operates from a non-pathologizing and non-blaming stance and believes that individuals are not the problem, but instead the problem is the problem. The therapy is collaborative and involves the therapist helping the client to externalize the problem and explore the preferred outcomes for their life. It is based on the assumption that the client is the expert in their own experience and that by assuming a "not knowing" stance, the therapist can help the client to explore new perspectives and generate their own solutions. Therefore, Ruth needs to become the senior partner in the collaborative relationship with the therapist.

Question 6

At the first session, the social constructionist therapist would primarily be interested in:

Accepted Answer

Social constructionist therapy places a lot of emphasis on the client's personal goals and desires for their future, so the therapist would want to understand what Ruth wants to achieve in order to guide the therapy sessions accordingly. The other options (A, B, D, E) are less relevant or in line with the social constructionist perspective.

Question 7

The solution-focused therapist:

Accepted Answer

The solution-focused therapist asks questions about the "news of difference" which is about behaviors or situations that have changed or improved, indicating progress towards the client's goals. This helps to focus on solutions rather than problems. Therefore, option B is correct. Option C is incorrect as complimenting the client is a valid and effective technique in solution-focused therapy. Option D is also incorrect as solution-focused therapists do not focus on diagnoses but instead on the client's goals and strengths.

Question 8

Operating from a social constructionist's perspective, the therapist would likely take what stand on making a diagnosis in Ruth's case?

Accepted Answer

From a social constructionist perspective, the therapist would view the diagnosis as a socially constructed label that may offer some useful information but may also limit Ruth's understanding and experience of her difficulties. Therefore, the therapist would collaborate with Ruth on assigning an appropriate diagnosis that reflects her unique experience and perspectives. This approach also respects Ruth's agency and autonomy in the therapy process.

Quiz 11: Case Approach to Postmodern Approaches