Attempted redundant solutions: 50 years of theory, evolution & research

The research article Redundant Attempted Solutions: 50 Years of Theory, Evolution, and New Supporting Data was published by Grégoire Vitry, Claude de Scorraille and Michael F. Hoyt in Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy (2021, 42, 174 –187).

The concept of attempted redundant solutions (RAS) was developed fifty years ago at the Mental Research Institute (MRI) in Palo Alto, California. This principle, based on cybernetics, is based on the idea that repeating an ineffective solution can actually perpetuate and worsen the original problem. This article traces the evolution of this theory from its origins to today, highlighting its potential role in current therapies and evaluating its effectiveness using data collected by the systems practice research network, SYPRENE.

Origins and evolution of the concept of redundant solution attempts

From Freudian roots to systemic approaches

The concept of attempted redundant solutions (RAS) has its roots in Sigmund Freud's observations of repetition compulsion, where patients repeat the same mistakes without being able to correct them. However, Freud did not view these repetitive behaviors as central to the formation and persistence of problems. Later work, such as that of Frankl, took into account the repetitive and paradoxical dimensions of behavior, but from a linear rather than a systemic perspective.

The notion of deviation-amplifier feedback, introduced by Wender, opened the way to a systemic understanding of repetitive behaviors. This theory suggests that fixed behaviors can be maintained by present rather than past forces, thus emphasizing the importance of current interaction in maintaining problems.

The Mental Research Institute and Attempts at Redundant Solutions 

At the Mental Research Institute (MRI), the theory of attempted solutions was formalized in the article “Brief Therapy: Focused Problem Resolution” by Weakland, Fisch, Watzlawick and Bodin. Efforts to eliminate a problem can actually maintain it and make it worse, they say. Thus, unsuccessful solution attempts are identified as behaviors to be interrupted to allow problem resolution.

Watzlawick and Weakland then introduced the distinction between first-order change (modifying the rules without changing the system) and second-order change (changing the rules of the system itself), emphasizing that only the latter approach makes it possible to escape from vicious circles. RAS.

The systemic and biopsychosocial perspective

The systemic and biopsychosocial approach, initiated by Engel, offers an integrative vision of problems, taking into account biological, psychological and social dimensions. This approach critiques biological and psychoanalytic reductionism, emphasizing that the elements of a living system cannot be understood in isolation but in relation to the whole.

This systemic vision is reinforced by the work of Bateson and Ruesch, who laid the foundations of cybernetics in communication, and by the principles of feedback and continuous mutual adaptation.

SYPRENE: A participatory research network

Presentation of SYPRENE

SYPRENE, created by LACT Research, is an international research network in systemic practice. It aims to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical practice by collecting data from real therapeutic contexts. SYPRENE's digital platform allows therapists to actively participate in research by recording and evaluating data from their therapy sessions.

Data collection methodology

SYPRENE data is collected by trained therapists and is recorded digitally. Each case includes information on the date, time, duration of sessions, diagnosis of problems, level of risk, and assessments of the therapeutic alliance and outcomes.

The tools used include the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and the Outcome Rating Scale (ORS), allowing a multidimensional assessment of therapeutic outcomes.

Benefits of participating in SYPRENE for therapists

1. Contribution to innovative research: Therapists participate in research that directly influences clinical practice and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in strategic and systemic therapy.

2. Feedback and continuous improvement: By recording and analyzing their data, practitioners obtain valuable feedback on their methods and results, promoting continuous improvement of their practice.

3. Access to a community of practitioners: SYPRENE facilitates the exchange of knowledge and experiences between therapists around the world, enriching each person's skills and perspectives.

4. Objective evaluation of practices: The standardized tools used allow therapists to quantify the results of their interventions in an objective manner, reinforcing the credibility of their practices.

5. Contribute to an international database: By participating in SYPRENE, therapists contribute to an international database that can be used for future research, providing a wealth of valuable information for the evolution of strategic and systemic therapy .

Preliminary results and perspectives

Preliminary results from SYPRENE show that strategic and systemic therapy is effective and efficient, with significant improvements reported by patients and therapists. On average, therapies require 5.4 sessions over a period of 5.3 months to achieve noticeable results.

Conclusion

SYPRENE represents a major advance in participatory psychotherapeutic research. By actively involving therapists in the research process, this project creates an essential link between theory and practice. It offers practitioners a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of their field while continually improving their own therapeutic practices. Participating in SYPRENE means being part of a dynamic community dedicated to excellence in strategic and systemic therapy.