SFCT (Chapter)
Which two theorists are credited with originating SFT in the late 1970s–1980s?
Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg.
Why might SFBT be a good fit for families with ASD?
It is brief, strengths-based, flexible, and focuses on achievable goals rather than deficits.
What is the main focus of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) when working with families after pediatric brain injury?
SFBT focuses on strengths, resources, and solutions, rather than problems.
True or False: The Solution-Focused Couples Therapy (SFCT) study was primarily theoretical, with no empirical data collected.
False.
It was an empirical study that measured pre- and post-test changes in couples’ relationship satisfaction using standardized instruments.
What is the purpose of the miracle question in couples therapy?
To help couples envision a preferred future and clarify their goals
What does SFCT encourage partners to focus on instead of blaming each other?
Concrete steps toward their preferred future together.
Families living with ASD often experience high levels of what?
Stress and strain on family relationships.
What is the Brain Injury Family Intervention for Adolescents (BIFI-A)?
12-session family intervention for adolescents with acquired brain injury and their families
What two standardized instruments did the researchers use to evaluate relationship outcomes?
Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) and Marital Status Inventory (MSI)
How do exception questions shift a couple’s narrative?
From being problem-saturated to solution-focused, reinforcing hope and agency.
The therapist highlights what instead of pointing out pathology?
Strengths, resources, and successes.
True or False: SFBT is presented as a replacement for behavioral interventions in ASD.
False. It is a complementary approach, not a replacement.
According to the article, what are two techniques or tools from SFBT that are used in the BIFI-A program?
Scaling questions
Goal setting using the S.M.A.R.T. model
True or False: The study found no significant improvements in marital satisfaction among couples who participated in the six-week SFCT group.
False.
Couples in the SFCT group showed significant improvement in overall relationship satisfaction and on all four DAS subscales.
Give an example of an exception-finding question for a couple.
“When was a recent time you got along better, even briefly? What was different?”
In SFCT, what is the therapeutic focus instead of analyzing problems?
Building solutions and identifying what works.
Research shows SFBT can improve what key family process in ASD households?
Coping and communication.
What stance or mindset are clinicians encouraged to adopt when using SFBT with families in rehabilitation?
positive, hopeful, and collaborative stance that emphasizes respect, engagement, and solution-building rather than problem analysis
Which of the following activities was not part of the SFCT group process?
A) Using humor and “doing a 180” exercises
B) Psychoeducation and homework assignments
C) Focus on past trauma exploration
C) Focus on past trauma exploration.
Scaling questions usually use what numerical range, and why?
A 0–10 scale, to measure progress, hope, or relationship satisfaction.
SFCT is especially effective with what types of couples’ issues?
Communication difficulties, conflict resolution, and adjustment challenges.
Why is SFBT considered an empowering model for families with ASD?
Because it emphasizes family agency, resources, and successful moments rather than limitations.
What type of research is still needed regarding this topic?
More empirical research is needed to test the effectiveness of SFBT and determine when and how it works best for adolescents with brain injuries.
True or False: The authors concluded that while SFCT showed promising results, future studies should include more diverse samples and long-term follow-ups.
True.
They recommended larger, controlled studies, inclusion of distressed or diverse couples, and long-term follow-up to strengthen the evidence base.
Why are compliments considered interventions, not just encouragement?
They reframe behavior as strengths, shifting focus to resources and potential solutions.