Discussion: Solution-Focused Model: Asking Questions

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Turner, F. J. (Ed.). (2017). Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches (6th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Exception questions:

Inquire about times when the problem is either absent, less intense, or dealt with in a manner that is acceptable to the client. Ex. When don’t you have this problem? When is the problem less bad? What is the different about these times?

Miracle question:

Provide a space for clients to separate themselves from their problem-saturated context and construct a future vision of life without the presenting complaint or with acceptable improvements in the problem.

Coping Questions:

Help clients notice times when they are coping with their problems and what it is they are doing at those times when they are successfully coping. Ex. How have you been able to keep going despite all the difficulties you’ve encountered? How are you able to get around despite not being able to walk?

Scaling Questions:

Usually, ask clients to rank their situation and/or goal on a one-to-ten scale where one would represent the worst scenario that could possibly be, and ten is the most desirable outcome.

Relationship Questions:

When asked clients to imagine how significant others in their environment might react to their problem or situation might react to their problem or situation and the changes they make. Relationship questions contextualize not only problem definitions but also the client’s desired goals and changes. Ex. What would your mother (or spouse, sister, etc.) notice that is different about you if you are more comfortable with the new environment? How would your wife or other significant other ranks your motivation to change on a one to ten scale?