Family Systems Theory

Question 1

Briefly explain the Family Systems Theory theory

Answer 1

• suggests that individuals cannot be understood in isolation from one another, but rather as a part of their family.
• Families are systems of interconnected and independent individuals, none of whom can be understood in isolation from the system.
• The connectedness and reactivity make the functioning of family members interdependent.
• A change in one person’s functioning is predictably followed by reciprocal changes in the functioning of others.
• To understand the functions of a family, it is vital to understand some common concepts.

Question 2

Explain the HOMEOSTASIS concept

Answer 2

Homeostasis

• refers to the tendency for a system to maintain a relatively stable, constant state of equilibrium or balance despite the challenging situation.
• If something disturbs this equilibrium, the system will readjust itself and regain stability.
• A homeostatic family system is one that is functioning in such a way that it can continue to function and stay together.
• not necessarily functioning as well or as effectively as it could be.
• is about being in “status quo” even is the “status quo” can be ineffective, challenging or even life threatening (e.g. family violence)

Question 3

Explain the ENTROPY concept

Answer 3

Entropy is a tendency of a system to progress toward disorganisation, depletion and death.

Reality: nothing remains constant forever and families are never frozen in time.

People grow old and eventually die and children leave to start their own families.

Family members are
constantly changing and responding to new situations and challenges.

Question 4

Explain the NEGATIVE ENTROPY concept

Answer 4

Negative entropy is the progress of a system towards growth and
development.

Individuals develop physically, intellectually and emotionally.

Question 5

Explain the EQUIFINALITY concept

Answer 5

Equifinality refers to the fact that there are many different roads / ways to a desired outcome.

It is vital not to get attached to only one way of thinking.

In each situation, there are different perspectives and hence, different possible alternative actions.

Some may seem better than others, some may seem more feasible than others, yet they are all possible alternatives to be considered.