ABSTRACT
The value of out-of-session behavioral tasks in marital therapy has been recognized for several decades (Sheldon & Ackerman, 1974) . Interpretation, analysis, and reflection, while integral parts of individual therapy, are insufficient in and of themselves as means of implementing solutions to the day-to-day problems faced by most couples and families . According to L' Abate (1986) and Andolfi (1980) the therapist must play an active and directive role both during the clinical hour and in the delegation of assignments at home. Clients learn by doing and so need the opportunity to repeatedly practice new behaviors and to process their results in order to develop alternative, more functional attitudes, cognitions, behaviors, and feelings .
