Family Systems Theory Paper

530 Words2 Pages

The practice of family therapy is heavily influenced by the systems theory perspective. Systems theory views the individual’s present environment and the intergenerational family system as the base from which psychological and relational problems arise (Corey, Corey, Corey, & Callanan, 2015). The systems perspective views the family as a functioning unit as opposed to individuals functioning independently void of any collective or interconnected influences. It recognizes that the actions of any individual family member will influence all other members. Thus, the client’s problem could be a symptom of the functionality of the family unit. Therefore, if I had a family as clients, I would ask circular questions that will allow me to questions the relationships within the family. This form of questioning will allow the family to learn of the connections between their behaviors and where they differ. Hence, this form of questioning is designed to focus on the relational dynamics within a family in order to outline the structure of the relationships and to emphasize their circular nature (Fleuridas, Nelson, & Rosenthal, 1986). For example, some of the questions I would ask to help them express their distress are: 1.) What is the problem in the family now? 2.) What concerns bring you into therapy now? 3.) What is the main concern of the family now? …show more content…

There are two boys ages 17 and 12 and a girl age 18 that are having difficulty getting along. As a result, they constantly argue and often have disagreements. The 17 and 18 year old believes each other receive preferential treatment from their parents. The 12 year old believes he is always the blame for anything that goes wrong in the family. The mother has difficulty communicating with her 18 year old daughter and the father feels the mother spoils their

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Becvar, D. S., & Becvar, R. J. (1999). Systems theory and family systems (2 ed.). Lanham, NY: University Press of America.
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944 Words | 2 Pages
According to Richard Charles (2001) “the effectiveness of family systems theory rests not much on empirical research but on clinical reports of positive treatment outcomes, the personal benefits experienced by the families that underwent this kind of treatment, and the elegance of Bowen’s theory” (p. 279). Bowen’s family systems theory views the family as an emotional unit and is a theory of human behavior. Systems thinking is used to describe the complex interactions in the unit. However, the client’s ability to differentiate himself/herself from the family of origin is the basis for Bowen’s family systems theory. In addition, the primary focus for growth within the emotional system is differentiation of self.
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964 Words | 2 Pages
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1295 Words | 3 Pages
Families make us who we are. From our families we learn communication skills, emotions and how to form relationships. Murray Bowen developed the Bowen family systems theory. The Bowen family systems theory provides the opportunity to learn about complex family relationships and emotional relationships. The Bowen family systems theory can be integrated with religion and spirituality. Everyone can relate the Bowen family systems theory. I can integrate my personal experiences with concepts from the Bowen family systems theory.
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973 Words | 2 Pages
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565 Words | 2 Pages
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952 Words | 2 Pages
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735 Words | 2 Pages
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1325 Words | 3 Pages
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1089 Words | 3 Pages
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Family Systems Theory Paper

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