This study investigated the perceived acceptability of various paradoxical techniques. Clinical vignettes representing compliance and defiance based paradoxical techniques were presented to four groups: marriage and family therapists, counseling psychologists, clients, and a nonclient control group. Results indicated that ratings of acceptability were dependent on both the type of paradoxical technique and the participant group. Participant group differences were most apparent between marriage and family therapists and clients. Results are discussed in terms of previous research and the continuing controversy over the use of paradoxical procedures in counseling.
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