Multi-family anger management: a solution-focused approach

Abstract

There is a wealth of literature describing the complex phenomenon of aggression and its individual, family, and societal impact. As aggression is typically first displayed in childhood, there is a vital need for early intervention with these children. As childhood aggression represents a large number of the children referred to mental health agencies for treatment and the parents typically identify the problem, it is essential that interventions are a collaborative effort between children and their caregivers. Group therapy is often used as a method of intervention with this population but, typically, isolates the child from the family context. Considering the magnitude of aggression and its impact on families, there is a need to explore innovative interventions that include the entire family. This project report describes one such intervention-a Multi-Family Anger Management Group. The unique process of a multi-family therapy group designed to control anger and reduce aggression in families is examined within the context of a case study. The group itself was delivered using a solution-focused approach. A review of the literature relating to childhood aggression, solution-focused therapy, group work and multi-family group therapy is presented. A critical analysis identified and examined several themes including the development of trust, family collaboration to construct solutions, and the impact of solution-focused strategies. The analysis suggests that the Multi-Family Anger Management Group is a creative and effective intervention for reducing aggression within families. Abstract