The core variables of symbolic-experiential therapy: a qualitative study.
Symbolic-experiential therapists have been criticized for not adequately operationalizing symbolic theory and empirically validating their methods. Although pioneering researchers have noted that the task of studying and evaluating humanistic therapies is complex, we agree that all therapists need to be held accountable for their interventions. In this article we identify the core variables underlying symbolic-experiential therapy that emerged from a research study using grounded theory. The inductively derived conceptual framework for symbolic-experiential therapy included: (a) Generating an interpersonal set; (b) creating a suprasystem; (c) stimulating a symbolic context; (d) activating stress within the system; (e) creating symbolic experience; and (f) moving out of the system.
Mitten
Tammy J
TJ
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Department of Professional Studies, 303 Centennial Hall Edinboro, Pennsylvania 16444, USA. tmitten@edinboro.edu
Connell
Gary M
GM
D005196:Family Therapy / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D008388:Marital Therapy / Q000592:standards*; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012107:Research Design / Q000592:standards*; D014481:United States