A discourse analysis of the initial negotiation of therapeutic parameters and the development of new problem descriptions, in two different psychological therapies

• Main Author: Campbell, Jesse
• Published: University of East London 2009
• Subjects: 150
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.532928

This thesis uses discourse analysis to compare systemic and cognitive-behavioural therapies, in terms of, the process of initial negotiation between client and therapist over therapeutic parameters, and the development of new problem descriptions. It also compares the theoretical description of the application of each therapy with the actual application of each therapy. The first section develops an argument for an approach to process research which is based on bottom-up naturalistic analysis of the way language is used in therapy. In doing so, it highlights the limitations of the positivist process and outcome research traditions, and provides an account of the range of established approaches to discourse analysis. The approach to analysis used draws on traditions of conversation analysis and discourse analysis. Several sub-themes are discussed within each of the two main analytic foci; negotiation of parameters and development of problem descriptions. The final section summarises the findings according to the analytic foci, and discusses the implications of the findings for clinical practice, and topical professional and political developments. Further indicated research and validity issues are also discussed.