Resolution of transference problems in structural therapy of single-parent families by a male therapist

Treatment of single-parent families by a male therapist may arouse transference problems. The male therapist may be inducted into the family system, given the role of father or husband for better or worse. Structural family therapy is suggested in order to overcome the transference. The aim is to restructure the single-parent family to enhance its ability to function independently without the need for an outside male authority figure. Working through the termination process is also devised as an important stage in the therapeutic process to cope with separation problems.