Exploring Relational Dialogue in Solution-Focused Coaching Sessions: An Analysis of Co-Construction and Reflection. (17th August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: King, Gillian; Baldwin, Patricia; Servais, Michelle; Moodie, Sheila; Kim, Janet
• Is Part Of: Developmental neurorehabilitation. Volume 23:Number 6(2020)
• Page Start: 390
• Page End: 401
• Publication Date: 2020-08-17
• Subjects: Communication skills -- conversational elements -- listening skills -- pediatric rehabilitation -- professional development -- solution-focused; Children with disabilities -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Developmentally disabled children -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; 615.542
• DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2020.1711542
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-8423

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Purpose : To examine solution-focused coaching (SFC) as a means to enhance clinicians' professional development. Methods : Six pediatric rehabilitation clinicians (three physical, two occupational, and one behavior therapist) each received two SFC sessions targeting clinical listening goals. Conversational intervals were noted in session transcriptions. Frequencies of relational strategies and conversational intervals were calculated. The meaning of intervals > 10 s was examined. Results : The most frequent relational strategies indicated that SFC facilitates reflection and critical thinking, and encourages action. An appreciable number of long intervals (>10 s) occurred, indicating substantial reflection by participants. These were embedded in relational dialogue sequences involving coach questions and formulations, and participant pauses. Conclusions : The findings support the use of SFC as a professional development tool and substantiate the view that SFC 'works' through the coach's use of relational strategies designed to facilitate collaborative conversations that build solutions through an emphasis on reflection and action.