A Circumplex Model of Couple Configurations in Relational Trauma Context: An Example of Practice‐Based Model Development

Keywords

view of self in relation to other, VSIRO, therapy, relational trauma

Abstract

We propose a circumplex model and typology of patterns of couple engagement to help therapists assess and shape positive couple engagement, prerequisite to successful resolution of relational trauma. View or value of self in relation to other (VSIRO) is conceived as a primary engine organizing couple relationships and patterns of engagement. VSIRO is conceptualized along a continuum anchored at opposite poles by inflated (self‐aggrandizing) versus collapsed (self‐negating) VSIRO, with a balanced (egalitarian) VSIRO as the target position, consisting of self and other mutuality, respect, and equality. Two axes (one for each partner) form the circumplex model of five couple configurations—four quadrants plus a balanced, mid‐axes region. Using couple configuration conceptualization to address patterns of engagement is an essential prerequisite to resolving couple relational trauma.

Original Publication Citation

Butler, M. H., & Spencer, T. J.* (2018 Online, 2019 Print). A circumplex model of couple configurations in relational trauma context: An example of practice-based model development. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 45(3), 494–507.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2018-07-13

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7282

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

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS