This chapter presents a pioneering model for analyzing the dynamics of online couple therapy, based on qualitative research examining the experiences of both couples and therapists in Israel. Utilizing an integrative theoretical approach, it explores the socioecological aspects of technology and the critical elements of online therapy, presenting the groundbreaking concept of “the virtual third.” This theoretical framework, incorporating social constructionism, the technology acceptance model, and ecological systems theory, is applied to analyze the interaction between individuals, technology, and their environments within therapeutic settings. The concept of the virtual third, encompassing three fundamental dimensions of online couple therapy—telepresence, therapeutic alliance, and therapeutic boundaries—is detailed. These elements, in conjunction with the theoretical framework, form the core of the virtual third model. This model offers a distinctive viewpoint, linking the therapeutic dyad with technology and emphasizing the significance of interconnectivity, co-creation, and intersubjectivity in online therapy. This challenges traditional perceptions of mind-body dualism. This chapter highlights the potential revolutionary shift in therapeutic practice through the lens of the virtual third concept and suggests the need for more research to assess its effectiveness across different psychological approaches in online couple therapy. It provides an in-depth and nuanced perspective on the dynamics of online couple therapy, integrating technological, social, and ecological contexts.

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The Virtual Third: Conceptualizing Online Couple Therapy Using Grounded Theory

  • Alon Aviram

摘要

This chapter presents a pioneering model for analyzing the dynamics of online couple therapy, based on qualitative research examining the experiences of both couples and therapists in Israel. Utilizing an integrative theoretical approach, it explores the socioecological aspects of technology and the critical elements of online therapy, presenting the groundbreaking concept of “the virtual third.” This theoretical framework, incorporating social constructionism, the technology acceptance model, and ecological systems theory, is applied to analyze the interaction between individuals, technology, and their environments within therapeutic settings. The concept of the virtual third, encompassing three fundamental dimensions of online couple therapy—telepresence, therapeutic alliance, and therapeutic boundaries—is detailed. These elements, in conjunction with the theoretical framework, form the core of the virtual third model. This model offers a distinctive viewpoint, linking the therapeutic dyad with technology and emphasizing the significance of interconnectivity, co-creation, and intersubjectivity in online therapy. This challenges traditional perceptions of mind-body dualism. This chapter highlights the potential revolutionary shift in therapeutic practice through the lens of the virtual third concept and suggests the need for more research to assess its effectiveness across different psychological approaches in online couple therapy. It provides an in-depth and nuanced perspective on the dynamics of online couple therapy, integrating technological, social, and ecological contexts.