Beyond Parallel Process: Relational Perspectives on Field Instruction

This article explores the implications of contemporary relational perspectives for transforming our understanding and use of the concept of parallel process in supervisory relationships in social work field instruction. We review the history of the concept of parallel process, summarize current relational views in psychodynamic supervision, and critique the social work literature in light of the paradigmatic shift to a relational, constructivist viewpoint. We present two vignettes illustrating how relational sensibilities enrich our understanding and increase the effectiveness of the field instruction relationship. We relocate parallel process, which up to now has been a primary, organizing framework in psychodynamic supervision, in a larger relational matrix, where it is one element in a complex, interactive process and serves as a marker for further exploration in reflective social work practice.