Family Circumplex Model

Question 1

Who developed the Family Circumplex Model?

Answer 1

Olson

Question 2

What does this model reveal about families and couples?

Answer 2

It reveals how important cohesion, flexibility, and communication are ti understanding relationship dynamics.

Question 3

Describe cohesiveness. What do we mean by disengaged and enmeshed families? What are some examples?

Answer 3

Cohesion is a feeling of emotional closeness with another person. Disengaged relationships have a low level of cohesion; they emphasize the individual and often lack closeness and loyalty, have high independence, and have high separateness. Enmeshed relationships emphasize togetherness: very high levels of closeness, loyalty, and dependence on one another.

Question 4

Describe flexibility. What do we mean by rigid and chaotic families? What are some examples?

Answer 4

Flexibility is the amount of change that occurs in leadership, role relationships, and relationship rules. Rigid families have little room for change; rules are always the same, and do not permit each other to make even small changes. Chaotic families are almost completely without structure, rules, and roles.

Question 5

What is the importance of communication in a family? What are the six dimensions used to assess the quality of communication in a family?

Answer 5

Smoothes frictions between partners and family members; the better the communication skills, the stronger the couple and family relationship. The six dimensions are listening skills, speaking skills, self disclosure, clarity, staying on topic, and respect and regard.

Question 6

Do family dynamics change over time?

Answer 6

Yes.