A [[Marriage & Family Therapy]] by Carl Whitaker. ### **Key Ideas** **“Therapy of the absurd”** - The therapist uses playful, strange, or exaggerated behavior to shake things up—but always with care and compassion. - The goal is to bring hidden feelings or patterns into the open by creating moments that are unusual or emotionally intense. ## Emotional process and family structure - This is important **Focus on Emotions, Not Just Behavior** - Instead of changing behavior directly, this approach works on a deeper emotional level within the family. - It uses things like symbols, real-life moments, humor, play, and emotional confrontation to help family members connect and grow. **Existential Encounters** - The therapist might intentionally create emotional tension to help families face what’s really happening in the present moment. - This approach is about stirring up real feelings—not staying surface-level. **How the Family Interacts** - Looks at how the family functions: roles, boundaries, alliances, emotional needs, commitment, and how they handle conflict. **Core Belief** - Every family member has the right to be their true self.