Review of Research Trends on Applying Brief Therapy in Japanese School Education

抄録

　This study provides an overview of research trends on applying Brief Therapy in Japanese primary and secondary education to prevent and improve bullying, school refusal, and school maladjustment. The study examines the effectiveness and challenges of such interventions. The findings reveal that three primary approaches are used in school settings: the Solution-Focused Approach (SFA), the Mental Research Institute (MRI) Approach, and the Narrative Model. These approaches are applied according to the intervention unit—individual or group—the specific problems addressed, and the stages of assistance. The SFA has been widely implemented in Japan, highlighting a distinctive Japanese feature where homeroom teachers lead classroom interventions to improve classroom environments. The study identifies two main directions in preventive approaches: classroom-based interventions such as the Working on What Works Approach and individual counseling sessions employing Scaling Questions. Additionally, two forms of support have been identified for specific students in a problem-response phase (e.g., bullying or school refusal): Counseling based on Solution Talk conducted by homeroom teachers or school counselors and support provided through peer-based Support Groups. Future challenges include consistently implementing Brief Therapy in daily educational activities and conducting empirical studies that evaluate its effectiveness.