Attachment and the Therapeutic Alliance in Family Therapy

Keywords

therapeutic alliance, psychotherapy, mothers, fathers, adolescents, family therapy

Abstract

The therapeutic alliance has consistently predicted client outcomes in psychotherapy. This study uses attachment theory as a resource in understanding the therapeutic alliance. Participants in this study were 27 mothers, 15 fathers, and 23 adolescents that participated in family therapy. Results indicate that mothers' reports of trust in their oldest child predicted the alliance, and adolescent ratings of trust in mothers and fathers moderated the relationship between therapy alliance and symptom distress. Implications for family therapy research and practice are discussed.

Original Publication Citation

Johnson, L. N., Ketring, S. A., Rohacs, J., & Brewer, A. L., (2006). Attachment and the therapeutic alliance in family therapy. The American Journal of Family Therapy, 34, 205-218.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2006-08-16

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/6866

Publisher

The American Journal of Family Therapy

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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