Adolescent Configuration Styles, Parenting and Psychotherapy: A Relational Perspective

Starrs presents a contemporary understanding of adolescence, identifying three principal character styles and offering experience- near descriptions of the modernday adolescent. The author demonstrates how each configuration style in adolescence elicits a predictable response in parents and examines the challenges and dilemmas facing parents in today’s world, highlighting the patterns and pitfalls which often render parental interventions ineffective. Developmentally attuned parenting strategies are outlined, pertaining to each configuration style. The in depth analysis of adolescent process and parental response has implications for the therapeutic encounter. Intervention focuses both on one- to- one work with the adolescent and parental involvement. The complexity of working with adolescents and parents who demonstrate psychological entrenchment is also outlined.

This highly readable, original and exceptional contribution is suitable for psychotherapists, allied professionals and parents alike.