ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a case study of Mr. Smith. He was referred to a family therapist for consultation by a psychiatrist participating in an introductory seminar on family therapy. Mr. Smith has been a psychiatric patient for ten years, having been hospitalized twice for agitated depression. The family interview is an attempt on his psychiatrist’s part to find an alternative to hospitalization. Mrs. Smith complains, Mr. Smith denies, Mrs. Smith interrupts him, and he placates her by indicating his inadequacy. In this family, there is an agreement that Mr. Smith is the problem. He is the most vocal supporter of his position in the family. The focus shifts to Mrs. Smith and the couple’s sexual problems, and techniques like those developed by Masters and Johnson are brought in. The therapist also helps the family to establish a more defined life space for Mr. Brown, apart from the couple.
