Transcript IV. Fundamental Concepts of Family Therapy

IV. Fundamental Concepts
of Family Therapy
Power Point presentation prepared by
Leslie Barnes-Young, PhD, Francis Marion University
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Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2003
Systemic Concepts
• Recall that systems theory holds
that many problems are a product
of the relationships that surround
them.
• The family is a system with
characteristics of its own.
• The focus of investigation is on
the interaction within and among
systems and individuals.
Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2003
Cybernetics
• Is concerned with the study of
feedback mechanisms in
systems.
• Two types of feedback loops:
– Negative, signals the system to
restore the status quo
– Positive, signals the need to
modify the system.
Both types result in homeostasis.
Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2003
Systemic Concepts cont.
• Circular causality
– We mutually influence each other
via–
• Patterns of Interaction
– Family members’ characteristic
ways of behaving.
• Centrality of Communication
– Patterns of interaction expressed
are both verbal and nonverbal.
– “One cannot not communicate.”
Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2003
Systemic Concepts cont.
• Rules
– Define the family
– May be overt or
covert
• Boundaries
– Regulate the flow of
information in and
out of the system
• Triangles
– A three-person
system
– Theorists disagree
about their stability
• Change
– 1st Order change is
superficial.
– 2nd Order change
alters the system.
Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2003
Family Life Cycle
• Adopted my many family therapists.
• Includes predictable life stages and emotional
issues beyond those described by individual
models of development.
• Illustrates inherent family complexity.
• Acknowledges the impact of multiple
generations on development.
Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2003
For more information on systemic
concepts in family therapy–
• http://www.oikos.org/baten.htm
Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2003