Question

define circular questions and give an example.

Answer 1

Circular questioning is a technique used in systemic therapy, aims at gathering and, at the same time, introducing information into the family system. The gathering of information aids in the formulation and validation of hypotheses regarding the family's dynamic structure (hypothesis formation).

According to Bateson (1979), "information is the difference which makes a difference." For example, each participant in a family therapy session is asked in turn to express his or her views on the relationships and the differences between other family members. Thus, each family member to the development of an image of the family structure, and to an understanding of the circular (circularity) nature of the relationships in the family..

Circular questioning examples:

Across Time: “How might this problem change in the near future … medium future … long term future? “

Between People: “Who, between the two of you, most believes that John (the husband) is mostly responsible for these arguments?“

Aspects of a person: “When you are unhappy with what’s happening in this relationship, which part is more likely to take over: your rational side, or your emotional side?“

Between Situations: “Is this relationship happier at home …or on holiday …or elsewhere?”