Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST)

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Introduction Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST) focuses on the importance of the family as an emotional system, concentrating on the present while keeping in mind importance influences that extend family can have (Becvar & Becvar, 2009). BFST simultaneously looks at the individuality of a client and the client within the family system with belief that they are interconnected (Murdock, 2013). BFST is applied to a case vignette of Ana throughout this paper. Concepts BFST consists of several concepts such as: differentiation of self, emotional system of the nuclear family, family projection process, emotional cutoff and sibling position. The first concept, “differentiation of self” is when an individual has their own opinions and beliefs, …show more content…

Assessment is accomplished through informal and formal assessments, of questioning, which assess characteristics of the individual, the family and current nuclear family. By questioning Ana, the therapist would be able to assess the “level of emotionality” Ana presents with and better understand where Ana stands emotionally (Murdock, 2013). Another important assessment tool in BFST is the genogram. This intervention tool is utilized to identify patterns of behaviors that have continued over generations. In doing this, it allows for current negative behaviors to be reduced. BFST seeks to identify what is normal in the family for ideal functioning (Murdock, 2013). In finding out where Ana’s ideal functioning is, the therapist would be better able to treat …show more content…

The therapist role is to encourage families to develop healthier and stronger relationships between one another (Crago, 2005). In Ana’s case, the therapist would work to identify possible intergenerational beliefs that are affecting Ana and her family, encourage the family to develop strong relationships and work to prompt autonomy in Ana, while helping to resolve conflict. Client’s role BFST therapy is often described as coaching: the therapist being the coach and the client being the athlete. BFST therapists believe that outcomes are a result of the client (Murdock, 2013). Ana’s role in BFST is to go on “journeys” which will allow Ana to differentiate and to observe her family and decide if she is ready to act differently (Murdock, 2013). Treatment Populations and Social/Cultural Needs BFST is tailored to work with inner city, minority families and therapist are trained to assess and facilitate healthy family interactions based on cultural norms (Crago, 2005). This is important as Ana comes from a Guatemalan background and being aware of the cultural needs would be an important part of

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