Science and family therapy

Journal/Book: J Fam Ther. 1997; 19: 108 Cowley Rd, Oxford, Oxon, England OX4 1JF. Blackwell Publ Ltd. 401-415.

Abstract: Family therapists are being exhorted to adopt a social constructionist epistemology and to abandon science as a valid form of knowing. Epistemological objections to science are usually directed at 'positivism', an outmoded view that is largely discredited among practising scientists. Contemporary science, is, rather, constructionist, differing from other constructionist approaches only in ways of arbitrating between world views. Criticisms aimed at science apply to all forms of discourse, including family therapy. I conclude that science has failed family therapy at the practical, not the philosophical level.

Note: Article Legg C, City Univ London, Dept Psychol, Northampton Sq, London EC1V 0HB, ENGLAND

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