Types of Paradoxical Intervention and Indications/Contraindications for Use in Clinical Practice

Abstract

A review of theoretical mechanisms underlying paradoxical interventions is undertaken in an effort to classify them into three broad types: redefinition, symptom escalation and crisis induction, and redirection. A list of individual and family patient characteristics and problems particularly applicable to each type of paradoxical intervention is presented along with contraindications for use. Last, implications for training and cautions as to their use are presented.

Paradox as Epistemological Jump

“…Similar comments can be applied to attempts to redefine a problem, another type of "paradox"listed by Fisher et al (6). If a therapist asks a patient to escalate a symptom "so we can study it and understand it better,"that involves no paradoxical communication in and of itself; the therapist is enlisting the patient's aid in a common undertaking, and preserving the therapist's role as a helpful healer.…”

The 24 Hour Phenomenon

“…The 24 Hour Phenomenon can in this way be used to reframe symptoms paradoxically (Watzlawick, Weakland, & Fisch, 1974;Fisher, Anderson, & Jones, 1981).…”

Paradox in the experiences of professional women

“…First, a mystified person may be able to recognize paradoxical communication for what it is, either by clarifying the confusion or by adopting a perspective independent of the mystifying messages. 12 As long as the victim of mystification is able to comment on the situation and label it as mystification, s/he is not completely trapped within the pattern. Consequently, the victim may respond in ways which de-mystify the situation.…”