The phenomenology of exception times: Qualitative differences between problem‐focussed and solution‐focussed interventions

Abstract

Solution-focussed brief therapy (SFBT) is a prominent psychotherapeutic approach that deals with a positive focus and promises brief interventions. In two experiments, a solution-focussed technique was compared with a problem-focussed intervention. By means of a structured questionnaire, subjects were encouraged to think about a standard (Experiment 1) or a facultative topic (Experiment 2). Subsequently, they generated either one or five exceptions or exemplary problem episodes. Dependent variables were confident in coping with the problem, ease of retrieval, psychic comfort and several phenomenological properties of the autobiographical memory. A solutionoriented intervention increased self-confidence and established a positive mood. Exception times had a more positive tone and were generally more easily retrieved than problem episodes.The study confirms the claims of the SFBT for empowerment and rapid reduction of current suffering.

Solution-focused brief therapy from the perspective of clients with long-term physical health conditions

“…These results support Wehr's (2010) findings that adopting solution-focussed interventions could improve individuals' mood and self-confidence, with participants in the SFBT with physical health conditions current study feeling better able to manage their illness and make decisions following therapy. The two main aspects of SFBT suggested to be most beneficial within the current research are the way in which questions were posed by the psychologist and the focus on highlighting participants' strengths.…”

The differential effects of solution‐focused and problem‐focused coaching questions: a pilot study with implications for practice

“…In both Wehr (2009) and the present study, solution-focused approaches were associated with greater levels of positive affect. Isen (1987) notes that individuals in a positive mood react more cooperatively and show greater insight and more adaptive responses in social situations.…”

Making Positive Change: A Randomized Study Comparing Solution-Focused vs. Problem-Focused Coaching Questions

“…afterwards participants in the solution-focused group had higher positive affect than those in the problem-focused group. Moreover, in a similar study the solution-focused group had higher levels of confidence in their ability to deal with the problem (Wehr, 2010). …”

“…one of the few other studies to have compared specific solution-focused and problem-focused techniques also supports the findings reported here. Wehr (2010) asked participants to focus on a specific personal problem that they would like to solve. one group then generated exceptions to the problem and the other group generated examples of similar or additional problems.…”