Family Systems Theory Flashcards
Who developed Bowen Family Systems Theory
Murray Bowen, based on concepts from General Systems Theory and Cybernetics
When was Family Systems Theory developed?
In the 1950s
What are the 8 principles of Family Systems Theory?
- Triangles
- Differentiation of Self
- Nuclear Family Emotional Process
- Family Projection Process
- Multigenerational Transmission Process
- Emotional Cutoff
- Sibling Position
- Societal Emotional Process
What is the triangle in Bowen’s Family Systems Theory
A system of three relationships, considered the simplest stable relationship in a family
Why is a two-person system unstable?
It tolerates little tension until a third person is added, creating alliances and leaving one person “outside”
How can a triangle be healing?
A therapist can form a triangle with a couple, aligning equally with both partners and encouraging interaction
What is differentiation of self?
Developing a healthy balance between family membership and independence, without losing personal identity
What happens if differentiation is low?
the individual loses their identity by becoming too dependent on the family
what defines a healthy differentiated person?
they balance the need for dependence and independence
What are the four relationship patterns in the nuclear family emotional process?
- marital conflict
- dysfunction in a spouse
- impairment of one or more children
- emotional distance
What is the family projection process?
families focus on perceived weaknesses they fear will repeat in their children, often leading to increased attention on the issue
what is the impact of the family projection process on children?
children may feel something is wrong due to how family members behave toward them
what does the multigenerational transmission process suggest?
patterns, moods, and actions are likely passed from one generation to the next within families
how can the multigenerational transmission process be interrupted
through greater differentiation or emotional cutoff
What is emotional cutoff?
reducing or eliminating contact with a family member to manage unresolved issues
what are the effects of emotional cutoff?
it may reduce tension short-term but can cause trauma for individuals and family members
What is sibling position?
it refers to the different experiences individuals have based on their birth order
Is research on sibling position conclusive?
no, but some elements may be observable
what does the societal emotional process explain?
how emotional systems govern behavior in non-family groups and society, influencing societal changes
what is homeostasis in a family system?
a dynamic state of balance or equilibrium, where families maintain stability while adapting to constant change
What is the difference between positive and negative feedback loops in a family system?
- positive feedback loops promote change and adaptability
- negative feedback loops promote predictability and stability
what are open and closed systems in family dynamics
- open systems adapt to change
- closed systems resist change
what is cybernetics in the context of family systems?
cybernetics is a framework for understanding self-correcting behavior in systems based on feedback loops
what is family systems theory and what influenced it?
- family systems theory explains family life and relational dynamics.
- it is influenced by General Systems Theory and Cybernetics
