ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the specific goals which apply to both the check-ins and the more extensive parent meetings. The parent check-ins and meetings may indeed elicit statements from parents about their own reactions. The specific process for responding therapeutically to these self-statements will be addressed in the chapter. It covers the topics that should not be addressed within a single parent check-in or meeting, rather, they are intended to be discussed over the course of several parent contacts with dosing adjusted in accordance with the parent's individual needs and abilities. Clinicians should reiterate to parents that children with externalizing behaviors do not have sufficient internal strength to tolerate the pain and anxiety of disturbing emotional states. The purpose of ongoing parent meetings is not to provide individual psychotherapy for parents, however, parents who express a desire to look inward or to increase their own mind-mindedness. Parents should be familiar with Malan's Triangle of Conflict.
