The tracking technique in structural family therapy

Salvador Minuchin, a pioneer psychologist in structural family therapy, left us a rich legacy of useful techniques and interventions in the field of family therapy. Among these, the tracking technique stands out for its ability to allow the therapist to tune in to the family and obtain a clear vision of its structure and dynamics. This technique is a fundamental part of a therapeutic process that seeks to understand and address family problems from a place of empathy and neutrality.

Content

• Tracking and relational understanding
• Tracking techniques
  • Example of a case
  • References

Tracking and relational understanding

Tracking is a observation method and collection of relational information, where the therapist tries to understand the functioning and structure of the family without being absorbed by its own interpretations. Through a respectful listening and without issuing value judgments, The therapist encourages the family to share and explore their own narrative.

The tracking technique has a deep relationship with the Relational understanding concept. This methodology allows therapists to track the interaction and roles of each member within the family unit, providing a dynamic and complete image of existing relationships. In addition, the tracking plays special emphasis on how individual interactions fit into a broader framework of interrelations within the family.

In this process, it is important that the therapist understands that he cannot be completely objective, and he must observe how his own presence and style influence the dynamics of therapy.

When tracking family behavior, therapists become more aware of interaction guidelines, allowing them to better understand family relationships and their impact on the problems presented in therapy. In this process, it is essential that the therapist maintains a position of neutrality, avoiding prejudices and value judgments that may affect its interpretation of family dynamics.

Relational understanding is the main objective of tracking. When focusing on how each family member is related to others, the therapist can Start understanding communication guidelines, roles, alliances and conflicts within the family. This approach allows a systematic and holistic vision of the family, identifying both strengths and conflict or tension areas.

Track also provides a valuable perspective for therapeutic intervention. By understanding family interactions and relationship patterns, therapists can start working with the family to disturb dysfunctional interaction guidelines and promote healthy changes. This intervention can take several forms, from providing feedback and suggestions to change behaviors to facilitate the essay of new forms of interaction.

Border setting in family therapy

Tracking techniques

The tracking technique in structural family therapy is based on several key components to collect and analyze information about family dynamics and structures, are the following:

1. Make concrete questions that clarify: This is the most basic track of tracking, in which the therapist tells specific questions to clarify and understand family dynamics. The questions can address a variety of topics, from the history and background of the family, to the interpretation of each member of the events and experiences. The therapist can also ask questions to clarify roles, hierarchies, alliances and conflicts within the family.
2. Interference regarding interaction guidelines within the family: This technique implies that the therapist observes and comments on the interaction and communication patterns that notice in the family. This can help the family become aware of the dynamics that may be operating unconsciously or automatically.
3. Comments that stimulate the family to expand the information: The therapist can make comments or questions that motivate the family to share more information, explore topics in greater depth, or consider different perspectives. This is a way of promoting self-reflection and dialogue within the family.
4. Transform verbal states into nonverbal: The therapist can help the family understand their own dynamics and communication in a more concrete and tangible way, translating their verbal words and expressions into observable behaviors and actions.
5. Touching the essay of new behaviors: This technique is that the therapist guides the family to prove new ways of interacting and communicating, thus promoting change and adaptation.
6. Know the language used by family members: Understanding how each family member communicates, the therapist can identify problematic or dysfunctional patterns of communication.

These techniques help therapists to track and understand the complexities of family relationships, providing a solid basis for intervention and therapeutic change. Through tracking practice, the therapist can maintain a neutral and empathic position, while helping the family to explore and understand their own dynamics.

Example of a case

The López family is composed of parents, Luis and María, and their two teenage children, Ana and Pablo. The family sought help due to Paul's behavior problems and the general tension that these problems have caused in the family.

In the first session, the therapist begins to use the tracking technique, asking concrete questions to better understand family dynamics. For example, the therapist could ask: "How would each of you describe your relationship with other family members?"And" how do conflicts or disagreements handle in the family?".

Through the answers to these questions and the observation of family interactions during the session, the therapist begins to notice some patterns. Luis and María seem to be very focused on Paul's problems, while Ana seems to be ignored or overlooked. In addition, it seems that Maria takes most of the responsibility of dealing with Paul's problems, while Luis tends to avoid the conflict.

In subsequent sessions, the therapist begins to intervene in these dynamics. For example, you can make comments that stimulate the family to explore these dynamics, such as "I have realized that Luis, you seem to distance yourself when talking about Paul's problems. How do you see this situation?"Or" Ana, it seems that sometimes you feel excluded in conversations about Paul. How does it make you feel?".

The therapist could also suggest the rehearsal of new behaviors. For example, it could suggest Luis to try to get more involved in Pablo conversations, or that Ana speaks on how she feels when her presence in family discussions is ignored.

Through the tracking technique, the therapist can guide the López family to realize their dysfunctional interaction patterns and work together to change them. This self-reflection and change process can be challenging, but with the support and guidance of the therapist, the family can begin to improve their relationships and reduce tension and conflict in their home.

The structural model in systemic family therapy

References