Interpersonal inventory
Map the patient’s significant relationships and locate the interpersonal problem area that will focus the treatment.
Sessions 1–3 of interpersonal psychotherapy; useful in any relational approach.10 fieldsInterpersonal PsychotherapyInterpersonal Theory & Reconstructive Therapy
How this document is used well
The inventory is a systematic review of current close relationships, conducted so that the treatment can be focused on one of four problem areas. IPT is deliberately narrow: choosing a single focus is what makes it brief and effective, and refusing to choose is the commonest way trainees dilute it.
| Problem area | Indicated when | Treatment aim |
|---|---|---|
| Grief (complicated bereavement) | Symptoms began around a death and mourning has not completed | Facilitate mourning; rebuild interests and relationships |
| Role dispute | Non-reciprocal expectations with a significant other | Clarify the dispute stage; renegotiate or resolve |
| Role transition | Symptoms follow a life change — job, illness, migration, parenthood, retirement | Mourn the old role; develop skills and attachments for the new one |
| Interpersonal deficits / sensitivity | Longstanding isolation and impoverished relationships; no acute trigger | Reduce isolation; build relationships. The weakest of the four — use only when the others do not fit |
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Shows why each item is asked
3 required fields outstanding: What was happening interpersonally when symptoms began or worsened?; Primary problem area; Interpersonal formulation to give the patient aloud