Theoretical Framework
SFT is based on this post-modern idea that the way we think about things influences our experience of them.
What is constructing our reality?
SFT does not explore this aspect of the problem’s origin, as it would reinforce the problem focus.
What is the etiology or deep exploration of the problem?
This famous SFT technique begins, “If you woke up tomorrow and a miracle happened…”
What is the miracle question?
In SFT, the therapist is not this kind of expert.
What is the content expert?
A client says, “Nothing works.” The therapist might ask, “When was the last time things were even slightly better?” This is an example of what type of question?
What is an exception question?
According to SFT, problems arise primarily from this kind of mindset.
What is a negative mindset?
Sessions are brief and focused on these kinds of goals.
What are tangible, short-term, and goal-oriented goals?
“Are there any times when this hasn’t been a problem?” is an example of this type of question.
What is an exception question?
SFT is not a systems approach and therefore doesn’t focus on this.
What is the family as a system?
A teen says, “I’ll never stop fighting with my mom.” The therapist asks, “What would your mom notice if things improved even a little?” This is what kind of question?
What is a relationship question?
Instead of exploring deep family patterns, SFT targets this type of problem.
What is a specific, tangible, presenting problem?
Only people involved in this are expected to attend therapy sessions.
What is those involved with the specific problem?
“On a scale of 1–10, how confident are you?” is this kind of question.
What is a scaling question?
Unlike Strategic or CBT approaches, newer SFT versions emphasize this aspect of therapy.
What is the therapist-client relationship?
A client rates their confidence as 4/10. The therapist asks, “What would move it to a 5?” This uses what technique?
What is a scaling question?
SFT integrates principles from CBT, Self-Efficacy Theory, and this general approach.
What is the Strengths-Based Approach?
Accomplishing small goals builds this psychological quality.
What is self-efficacy?
“How have you coped in the past?” demonstrates this technique.
What is a coping question?
Clients are viewed as one of these three types of participants: visitors, complainants, or this.
What are customers?
The therapist says, “It sounds like you’ve been working really hard to stay calm around your son.” This is an example of what technique?
What is complimenting or reinforcing strengths?
SFT helps clients shift from problem-focused to this kind of thinking.
What is solution-focused or positive mindset?
SFT promotes positive mindset through this kind of talk.
What is goal-oriented talk?
The miracle question helps build this part of treatment planning.
What is the preferred future or action plan?
The therapist helps clients develop these to replace ineffective problem-solving attempts.
What are specific action steps or solutions?
A client says, “I want to stop yelling at my kids.” The therapist asks, “What will your mornings look like when you’re calmer?” This demonstrates which principle?
What is focusing on the preferred future?