THE BEHIND-YOUR-BACK TECHNIQUE IN MARRIAGE COUNSELING

Abstract

The Behind-Your-Back technique is essentially a simple procedure. As described by Corsini, one member of a therapeutic group after discussing his problem, "leaves" the room by turning his back to the group, who in turn act as though he were really out of the room and begin to discuss him "behind his back." The effectiveness of this method is based on the absence of visual stimulation: the person "out of the room" is able to accept criticisms without hurt and the others are able to talk about the "missing member" with great frankness. Because of its relative simplicity and the logic of its dynamics, it seemed that this method might be used to advantage in marriage counseling. The following is a report of its use in such a group.