Reconsidering the term "marriage" in Marriage and Family Therapy

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Christine E. Murray, Director (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: This article presents a consideration of whether the term marriage in the title of the marriage and family therapy (MFT) profession continues to reflect the work that MFT professionals do. The authors describe relevant historical and professional identity issues, a rationale for revising the title of the profession (including demographic trends related to marriage and relationships, patterns of clinical practice, and the political context surrounding marriage), and a rationale for maintaining the current title of the profession (including administrative costs, value and ideological differences within the MFT profession, and the importance of a cohesive professional identity). The article concludes with recommended future directions for the profession‘s decision makers, researchers, and practitioners.

Additional Information

Publication
Contemporary Family Therapy, 31, 209-221
Language: English
Date: 2009
Keywords
Professional identity, Marriage and family therapy, Couples therapy

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