Triadic Restructuring (TR)

Triadic Restructuring (TR) is the Triadic-relational configurations Substrate

Definition:

Triadic Restructuring (TR) is a method of restructuring or re-patterning that encompasses an array of techniques which occur in three-person and larger systems. Thus, TR utilizes techniques which alter process, structure, hierarchy, and function of triads and family systems at domain Level III (triadic-relational) of the total ecological system. Viewing the system using an increasingly macroscopic lens, TR techniques tend to focus on dyads which are unstable having engaged a third-person to stabilize the dyad. Whereas, DR is concerned with self-other configurations, TR emphasizes a dyad + another. These techniques are primarily derived from family systems approaches but may also be used individually. Triangular configurations may exist in multiple configurations, both generationally and muti-generationally.

Function:

• (a) stabilizing an unstable triangle:
• (b) displacing conflict,
• (c) avoiding intimacy in a dyad” (Guerin et al., 1996, p. 56).[1]
• Also, viewed by Fogarty (1979)[2] “as a short-circuiting mechanism that serves the purposes of avoiding discomfort with intimacy and of avoiding discomfort with facing conflictual issues (Guerin et al., 1996, p. 13).[3]

Goals of Restructuring:

• Subtypes of Triadic Restructuring:
  • Relational Triadic Restructuring: focus on three-person relationships in vivo
  • Symbolic-relational restructuring: focus on individual or dynamics in triad not physically present

Function: (a) stabilizing an unstable triangle: (b) displacing conflict, (c) avoiding intimacy in a dyad” (Guerin et al., 1996, p. 56).[1] Also, viewed by Fogarty (1979)[2] “as a short-circuiting mechanism that serves the purposes of avoiding discomfort with intimacy and of avoiding discomfort with facing conflictual issues (Guerin et al., 1996, p. 13).[3]

Techniques:

Function: (a) stabilizing an unstable triangle: (b) displacing conflict, (c) avoiding intimacy in a dyad” (Guerin et al., 1996, p. 56).[1] Also, viewed by Fogarty (1979)[2] “as a short-circuiting mechanism that serves the purposes of avoiding discomfort with intimacy and of avoiding discomfort with facing conflictual issues (Guerin et al., 1996, p. 13).[3] [edit] Goals of Restructuring: “Structural alterations for symptom relief and a focus on bringing to the surface the emotional process that occurs within triangles. It gives therapeutic access to the underlying individual and dyadic processes that have been driving the presenting symptom” (Guerin, et al., 1996, p. 18).[4]

Subtypes of Triadic Restructuring: Relational Triadic Restructuring: focus on three-person relationships in vivo Symbolic-relational restructuring: focus on individual or dynamics in triad not physically present [edit] Techniques: Expected-transactive restructuring Interpretation and linking Transference-Past relationships (T-P) Transference-Current relationships Transference-Current relationships-Past relationships (T-C-P) (Sifneos, Malan, Davanloo) Empathic validation (Kohut, 1971) Encouragement to elaborate [edit] References 1.↑ Guerin, P. J., Fogarty, T. F., Fay, L. F., & Kautto, J. G. (1996). Working with relational triangles: The one-two-three of psychotherapy. New York: Guilford Press. 2.↑ Fogarty, T. (1979). The distancer and the pursuer. The Family, 7(1), 11-16. 3.↑ Guerin, P. J., Fogarty, T. F., Fay, L. F., & Kautto, J. G. (1996). Working with relational triangles: The one-two-three of psychotherapy. New York: Guilford Press. 4.↑ Guerin, P. J., Fogarty, T. F., Fay, L. F., & Kautto, J. G. (1996). Working with relational triangles: The one-two-three of psychotherapy. New York: Guilford Press.