Analysing the relational components of systemic family therapy through the lenses of self positions and therapeutic alliance: an exploratory study

Several studies have stressed how relational components of therapy account for successful treatment more than techniques and therapeutic models. The relational domain lies at the heart of family therapy, yet systemic research on therapeutic relationship is still scarce. Process research developed different approaches identifying different aspects of the relational components that contribute to a successful psychotherapy. They have been usually considered separately. Building upon a qualitative analysis of the different Self positions in conversation by means of MAPP (Balestra and Fruggeri, ), and the analysis of therapeutic alliance by means of SOFTA (Friedlander et al., ), the purpose of this study is to explore how therapeutic alliance, which has often been considered the main component of the therapeutic relationship in common factors research, interrelates with the discursive construction of Self positions and contexts of meaning. The study stresses how these relational aspects interact in systemic marital and family therapy. Practitioner points Outcomes and process studies underline that engagement, alliance, and the emergence of new meanings are the key elements for a successful psychotherapy Process research tools can detect the different components of the therapeutic relationship and their interconnection in the development of a session By being aware of the multifaceted components of the therapeutic relationship, clinicians may improve their ability to manage change processes while therapy is progressing