The Effect of Proxy-Voice Intervention on Couple Softening in the Context of Enactments

Keywords

therapy, proxy voice, intervention, softening

Abstract

In this study we evaluated the effectiveness of proxy voice (therapist acting as client's “voice”) intervention, embedded within couple enactments, on client‐perceived softening. The primary research question was whether use of proxy voice would be more likely to bring about softening, or if its use was counterintuitive to enactment conceptualization and would elicit struggle behavior (e.g., withdrawal or negativity). Results indicate that proxy voice has a significant, positive association with softening and is inversely related to withdrawal or negativity. Preliminary findings suggest that proxy voice intervention embedded within a fluid, carefully delineated, and discriminating model of enactments effectively facilitates essential elements of couple interaction (expression of primary affect and articulation of self‐concept and attachment threats) while promoting self‐reliant couple interaction and increased softening.

Original Publication Citation

Seedall, R. B., & Butler, M. H. (2006). The effect of proxy voice intervention on couple softening in the context of enactments. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 32(4), 421-437.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2006-10

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7256

Publisher

Journal of Marital and 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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