ABSTRACT

The strategic approach focuses on repeating sequences of behavior, particularly those that break hierarchical rules through cross-generational coalitions. Structural therapists focus on resolving structural problems in the family, whereas strategic therapists focus on the presenting symptom. Don Jackson was the first to apply communications theory to family treatment. Jackson recognized that family relationships consist of repetitive patterns of interactions. In 1965, Minuchin became professor of psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania and director of both the Philadelphia Child Guidance Clinic and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Department of Psychiatry. Jay Haley worked closely with and was influenced by the Palo Alto group, Milton Erickson, and Minuchin. Consequently, strategic family therapy is an integration of several seminal streams of family theory. The structural and strategic approaches share many fundamental principles. Siblings are the child’s first peer group with whom he or she learns to socialize; therefore, intrusions from adults are best kept at a minimum.