Epistemology and Ontology in Family Therapy: A ‘Holding’ of Both

Abstract

This paper discusses the changes brought to family therapy by the advent of postmodern philosophy. We examine the role of social constructionism in this context and distinguish its various versions based on their realist or anti-realist perspectives. We argue that contemporary family therapy should not be ontologically mute, as is currently the case in some approaches. Family therapy must incorporate both epistemology and ontology into a coherent philosophy of therapeutic practice. We highlight that the realism or anti-realism of the philosophy adopted by the therapist does not necessarily determine the authoritarian or non-authoritarian nature of his therapeutic practice. This is exemplified by new models of family therapy that are not ontologically mute but place significant emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. We suggest a therapeutic stance of collaborative or critical knowing, as we believe it can more effectively address the polarities inherent in the therapeutic process.