From Problem-Talk to Solution-Talk: Creating Possibilities Through Language Therapist’s Overview

Purpose of the Exercise

It has been said that language is a virus. Words can be very influential—conveying pathology and problems or possibilities and solutions. One of the ways we can facilitate change is by paying close attention to how we use words and by considering how language plays a role in both the construc-tion and resoluconstruc-tion of problems. This serves several purposes. First, it focuses on the positive intent behind behavior, such as working toward meeting a need. Second, it assists with creating solvable problems. A third benefit is it can promote hope through language that is less stigmatizing and blam-ing. A fourth reason is that it can generate new possibilities and solutions while also addressing any concerns. By making changes in how we talk about clients’ concerns, we can neutralize defensive-ness, build rapport, and spawn creativity. The purpose of this exercise is to make changes in the basic language that is used when identifying what the concerns are with clients. This entails shifting from “problem-talk” to “solution-talk.”

Suggestions for Use

1. This exercise can be completed by therapists as a way of thinking differently about concerns and possible solutions or with clients to generate new conversations for change.

2. If using with clients, it can be helpful to give examples of both problem-talk and solution-talk.

3. After completing this exercise, it may be helpful to consider what new ideas may have emerged about how to approach concerns as a result of using solution-talk.

4. Cross-reference: This exercise can be used in conjunction with Exercise I.10, “The Body Knows: The Influence of Words.”

Exercise

“Problems” are, at least in part, socially constructed representations of what has been identified as going “wrong.” Therapy certainly involves discussion of what is not working and how individua-tions, relationships, systems, and situations can change. The trouble with problem-talk is that it can stigmatize, blame, and demoralize; it frequently assumes negative intentions on the part of others;

it very rarely defines problems in ways that are solvable; and it closes down possibilities for change.

The antidote is solution-talk, which helps therapists and clients to redefine concerns in ways that assume the best intentions of others, contribute to the creation of solvable problems, and open up possibilities for solutions. It is important to note that we are not suggesting that therapists ignore problems and only talk about solutions. Instead we are advocating for conversations in which cli-ents’ concerns are both clearly presented and understood and that therapists, with clients, engage in conversations in which behaviors and actions are described in less blaming and stigmatizing ways.

These types of conversations not only help with identifying the positive intentions behind the behav-ior and how actions may be attempts to meet needs, they move conversations toward solutions and possibilities. The purpose of this exercise is to encourage solution-talk as a path to change.

To complete this exercise, please refer to the problem-talk descriptions listed in the left column and fill in the blank in the corresponding right column by using solution-talk. Examples have been provided to assist you.

proBlem-talk solutIon-talk

Isolates Is introspective and thoughtful

Resistant Is careful to do what is best for self

Manipulative good at getting needs met

Anger problem gets upset sometimes

disobedient Rebellious disruptive disrespectful Enmeshed disconnected

In addition to more general problem-talk, diagnostic language can contribute to conversations that unnecessarily stigmatize, blame, and close down possibilities for change. In this next section, please locate the diagnostic, problem-talk description in the left column and write down a corresponding solution-talk description in the corresponding right column.

AdHd Very energetic; is sometimes easily distracted

Bipolar Experiences significant ups and downs

dissociative Protects self emotionally when threatened Manic

Major depressive Reactive Attachment Obsessive-Compulsive Oppositional/defiant Antisocial

next, in the left-hand column write down some common problem-focused descriptions you are famil-iar with and change them to solution-talk. Please write your responses in the right-hand column.

For this final part, please complete the following questions.

1. What did you learn by changing the problem-focused terms to solution-talk?

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2. What ideas do you have for introducing solution-talk when conversations turn negative and laden with problem-talk?

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It is crucial to keep in mind that therapeutic conversations involve both problem-talk and solution-talk. It is not an “either/or” proposition. In addition, we do not minimize the problems that people experience, nor do we simply try to be positive and “spin” problems into a positive light. What is clear is that problem-talk can have a host of very negative consequences for both clients and therapists. By working with clients to identify their concerns and then introduce new ways of talking about those concerns through solution-talk, we see people as capable and their behavior as their best attempts to get their needs met. This can help us to think differently about the concerns presented and to gener-ate new possibilities for solutions that otherwise would be unavailable through problem-talk.

II.11 Future Screening: Creating a Vision for the Future