In Strategic Therapy, what does the 'One Down' position encourage when the client reports not being able to engage a new skill due to anxiety?

• A. Push for rapid skill adoption.
• B. Encourage the client not to do too much too soon.
• C. Demand complete behavioral change.
• D. Ignore the anxiety.

Answer: (B)

In Strategic Therapy, adopting a One-Down stance means the therapist lowers their perceived authority and alignment with the client, creating a non-threatening, cooperative atmosphere that reduces resistance. When the client reports that anxiety prevents engaging a new skill, the One-Down approach encourages pacing and feasibility—not pushing for rapid change or full mastery all at once. The idea is to validate the anxiety and propose small, doable steps, so progress feels attainable and confidence can build gradually.

This helps prevent overwhelm and keeps the client engaged, which is more effective than demanding quick, sweeping change, ignoring the anxiety, or forcing immediate mastery.