The way of conceptualizing and structuring this vocabulary obeys the criteria of the systemic theory by which family therapy is oriented. The result is unprecedented and, perhaps, unique. It is not a dictionary in the ordinary sense of a succession of definitions. The selection and analysis of the terms are explicitly governed by the circular and feed back principles of the systemic cognitive model, so that new and specific topics of family therapy are intertwined with each other and with all the philosophical and psychodynamic heritage in which are rooted.
Taking the key terms of family therapy as guidelines, this vocabulary explains in detail its conceptual origin, its modifications and variants that have arisen in relation to new clinical experiences and theoretical perspectives, which have marked the evolution of the various European and American schools.
The characteristic interrelation of the terms and cross references is enriched with an excellent bibliography of the most significant texts of family therapy. The surprisingly instructive and clarifying organization of this book gives good proof both of the effectiveness of the systemic therapeutic model and of the admirable breadth of knowledge of the authors.