The Use of Expectation in Solution-Focused Formula Tasks

Solution-focused therapy, developed by de Shazer and others at the Brief Therapy Family Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been a major force in the field of psychotherapy over the last twenty years. It is a directive, action-oriented approach that quickly gets clients focused on their own resources. Solution-focused therapists use several tasks to assist in the change process. This paper will explore how the theme running through the effectiveness of these tasks is that of expectation. The paper will begin with a discussion of expectancy in psychotherapy and how this creates an ambiance for difference. Then, the history of Solution-Focused Formula Tasks (SFFTs) will be presented. Finally, a discussion of the primary principles of SFFTs will be presented where the utilization of expectancy to prime the client for change will be highlighted as the main conduit of change.