Proactive and reactive - the Solution-Focused parent begins with a plan then continually evaluates how the plan is working, allowing modifications to be made to maximize its effectiveness (CEUS, 2005, p.1). Bruce (1995) believes that implementation of active, diverse strategies and interventions, including role-playing, artwork, homework assignments, interpretations, visualizations, and reframing help children and adolescents achieve their goals.
Active rather than directive - the Solution-Focused perspective includes the belief that helping children make decisions for themselves is generally better than making decisions for them (CEUS, 2005, p.1). Bruce (1995) thinks that by establishing clear, concrete, measurable goals that serve to help the teacher and student evaluate their progress.
Empowering - A solution-Focused approach encourages the child to view him/herself as an agent of change rather than a powerless pawn in a dangerous world (CEUS, 2005, p.2).
Positive - Solution-Focused approaches allows a parent to realistically and consistently see the positive side of their child's behavior (CEUS, 2005, p.2).
Hopeful - the Solution-Focused parent believes that positive behavioral change can occur quickly and at times unpredictably (CEUS, 2005, p.2).
The goal must be important to the client; keep goals small and achievable. Make goals concrete, specific and behavioral, goals express the presence of something or a behavior, rather than an absence, goals are expressed as beginnings rather than endings, the goals are realistic and achievable within the context of the client's life, and the client sees the goals as invoking "hard work."
References
Bruce, M.A. (1995). Brief Counseling: An effective model for change. School Counselor, 42, 353-364.
CEU Station (2005). Solution Focused Parenting. Retrieved 09/20/05, at http://www.ceustation.com/freeceu.html
Perkins, J.E. (1999). The Solution Frame: The Genius of Solution-Focused Therapy. The solution frame, pp.1-9. Retrieved 09/20/05, at http://www.drizzle.com/~newroots/papers/1m07.html
Schieffer, J.L., & Schieffer, D.J. (2000). Problem-Solving Skills: Solution-Focused Strategies for student Development. Problem solving, 1, pp.1-8. Retrieved 9/20/05, at http://www.ncacasi.org/jsi/2000v1i2/problem_sol_4
Selekman, M.D. (2002). Solution-Focused Therapy with Children: Harnessing Family Strengths for Systemic Change. New York:.
