Mod 6 Relationship Theory Used In Couples Counselling
Compare and contrast two theories/ models of relationships and show how they might be utilised by a therapist who is engaged in couples counselling
Name: Zoe Foster
Date: 14th January 2015
Course: SOUTH2S14
Module #: 6
Tutor Name: Anni Richardson
Expected Word Count: 2500
Actual Word Count: 2634
Introduction
In this paper I will look at what is means to be a couples’ counsellor. What theories apply to this mode of counselling and how can these can be utilised during the sessions. I will also consider some of the aspects that need to be considered with couples counselling including tools and key focus areas to support the effective sessions.
Equality, Perception and Exchange of Goods
‘The heart of good couples counselling is the facilitation of each person’s story and their partner’s listening to that story’ (O’Leary). O’Leary goes on to talk about the counsellor being a translator, moderator and host. What he means by this, is the ability to facilitate sessions through:
Understand different modalities, personalities and history in order to translate what one client may be saying into another’s language.
Moderate the session in such a way that clients’ freedom to speak, whilst respecting the ‘space’ of the other and that of the counsellor.
Ensure clients are aware that you are hosting the sessions in order to manage timings and contracted approach.
Social Exchange Theory
The theory suggests ‘social change and stability as a process of negotiated exchanges between parties’ (Wikipedia). This means a cost and benefit approach for any involved party developed as the relationship develops. If this balance is compromised, the individual who feels they are giving more than they are receiving will invariably feel resentment and may, ultimately, dissolve the relationship. It takes into account that the value given to a certain cost or reward varies person to person. Originally coined by George Homans (1958). Peter Blau, Richard Emerson, John Thibert, Harold
Name: Zoe Foster
Date: 14th January 2015
Course: SOUTH2S14
Module #: 6
Tutor Name: Anni Richardson
Expected Word Count: 2500
Actual Word Count: 2634
Introduction
In this paper I will look at what is means to be a couples’ counsellor. What theories apply to this mode of counselling and how can these can be utilised during the sessions. I will also consider some of the aspects that need to be considered with couples counselling including tools and key focus areas to support the effective sessions.
Equality, Perception and Exchange of Goods
‘The heart of good couples counselling is the facilitation of each person’s story and their partner’s listening to that story’ (O’Leary). O’Leary goes on to talk about the counsellor being a translator, moderator and host. What he means by this, is the ability to facilitate sessions through:
Understand different modalities, personalities and history in order to translate what one client may be saying into another’s language.
Moderate the session in such a way that clients’ freedom to speak, whilst respecting the ‘space’ of the other and that of the counsellor.
Ensure clients are aware that you are hosting the sessions in order to manage timings and contracted approach.
Social Exchange Theory
The theory suggests ‘social change and stability as a process of negotiated exchanges between parties’ (Wikipedia). This means a cost and benefit approach for any involved party developed as the relationship develops. If this balance is compromised, the individual who feels they are giving more than they are receiving will invariably feel resentment and may, ultimately, dissolve the relationship. It takes into account that the value given to a certain cost or reward varies person to person. Originally coined by George Homans (1958). Peter Blau, Richard Emerson, John Thibert, Harold
Bibliography: Erksine, R. G, Moursund, J. P, Trautman, R. L (1999) Beyond Empathy: A therapy of Contact-in-Relationship. Abingdon: Routledge Huseman, R.C O’Leary, C. J (1999). Counselling couples and families: A person-centered approach. London: SAGE Publications Ltd. Owen, Sam (2012) Blog: Social Exchange Theory and Your Relationships. [Online] Available from: http://www.relationshipscoach.co.uk/blog/social-exchange-theory-and-your-relationships/ [Accessed: 14th January 2015]