Solution-focused therapy: characteristics and applications

Solution Focused Therapy Characteristics

The Solution-Focused Therapy approach is a short-term, goal focused therapeutic approach that helps people change by encouraging them to construct solutions rather than merely dwell on problems. Some of the characteristics of Solution-Focused Therapy are: problem solving, strength-based, proactive and reactive, active rather than directive, empowering, positive, and hopeful (CEU Station [CEUS], 2005, p.1).

Problem solving- being Solution-Focused is an attitude that directs a parent to respond to children in a way that ushers them towards solutions rather than problems (CEUS, 2005, p.1). Schieffer & Schieffer (2000), went further into detain on problem solving in Solution-Focused therapy. They report that problem solving uses the motto " make the best better." By focusing on exceptions, the educator explores and reinforces the times when the problem was not present. Solutions are a natural outgrowth of the times when the problem was not present. Solution-Focused problem solving is based on the theory that small changes in behavior lead to bigger changes in behavior. Solution-focused problem solving emphasizes a role shift for students. Small shifts in role by a student (e.g., completing an assignment) will cause a role shift for students. Bruce (1995) identified that one of the main components of solution-focused problem solving is, the development of a working alliance in which the teacher and child work together in attacking the problem and its causes.

Strength-based- it focuses on the abilities and knowledge the child already has, and builds on these to help the child independently apply past learning to present challenges. This approach works with children down to the age of three, but since it is a cognitive model, realistically the older the child is the better it works (CEUS, 2005, p.1). Bruce (1995) stated that identification of the students' strengths, as a foundation on which to build confidence in their abilities to make positive changes in their lives is one of the main components of Solution-focused therapy. Selekman (2002) reported in his findings that looking for the strengths in any child, regardless of disability or level of functioning is paramount to aiding in their overall success. He believes that through a positive perspective you may also empower those children to invoke change.

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).