Development of a shame-based identity, also known as "toxic shame," can significantly interfere with an adult's ability to form an intimate relationship with another. As adults find peace from their past using transactional analysis and mental imagery, they learn to empower themselves to form healthy, intimate relationships.

A discussion of the key to success in family therapy as found in the change in interpersonal behavior within the family. (JM)

Discusses symptom production and symptom maintenance in terms of psychodynamic and system-oriented family therapy approaches. The conceptual and operational hypotheses of both approaches stem from different logics. Describes their different sets of data, lines of inquiry and treatment strategies. (Author/JAC)

A family contracting approach, delineating those behaviors which could not be used as sole justifications for involuntary hospitalization is recommended to decrease a psychiatric patient's fear of arbitrary, family-initiated commitment. The contract outlines the decision rules which might necessitate involuntary hospitalization. Advantages are…