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A conversation analysis of asking about disruptions in method of levels psychotherapy
Author(s) -
Can Caitlyn,
Meredith Joanne,
Speer Susan,
Mansell Warren
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
counselling and psychotherapy research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.38
H-Index - 32
eISSN - 1746-1405
pISSN - 1473-3145
DOI - 10.1002/capr.12243
Subject(s) - conversation , psychology , psychotherapist , perception , cognition , grounded theory , cognitive psychology , qualitative research , sociology , communication , psychiatry , social science , neuroscience
Background Method of levels (MOL) is a cognitive therapy with an emerging evidence base. It is grounded in perceptual control theory, and its transdiagnostic nature means techniques are widely applicable and not diagnosis‐specific. This paper contributes to psychotherapy process research by investigating a key technique of MOL, asking about disruptions, and in doing so aims to explore how the technique works and aid the understanding of related techniques in other psychotherapies. Method Conversation analysis (CA) is applied to asking about disruptions in 12 real‐life therapeutic interactions. Findings Analyses explore how and when therapists ask about disruptions, with examples presented according to their degree of adherence to the MOL approach. The majority of identified instances project responses consistent with MOL aims, encouraging further talk, focused on the client's problem, and with a shift to metalevel commentary. Also presented are examples of therapist and client influence on disruptions. Conclusion The paper provides support for a number of MOL practices, with clinical implications and links to other psychotherapies highlighted.