Family Systems Therapy (Shapiro Ch. 7) Flashcards
What is a system?
A set of interconnected elements that influence each other, with patterns of interaction that evolve over time.
How does systems theory view behavior?
The components behave the way they do, not only because of their own properties, but because of their relationships with other components. Each element influences and is influenced by every other element. A change in one component creates ripple effects throughout the system. Systems have emergent properties that are not entirely predictable from the component parts
What is linear causality?
What is reciprocal causality?
What are negative feedback loops?
move systems back toward equilibrium.
E.g., a child’s emotional problems bring his parents closer together as they try to help
What are positive feedback loops?
move systems away from equilibrium.
E.g., a child’s emotional problems increase disagreement and conflict between the parents.
How does family systems view the etiology of symptoms?
While mental health problems may be manifested by individuals (the “identified patient”), the true source of problems lies in patterns of family interaction.
What is a double bind?
the implicit message is the opposite of the explicit one, and the two levels of communication contradict each other
What does enmeshed mean?
there is excessive, unhealthy closeness, with insufficient autonomy and separation
What are subsystem alliances?
coalitions in which some people are extremely close and others are excluded.
What does disengaged mean?
the people are highly independent and distant from each other, with insufficient warmth and mutual support in the family.
What is family systems theory view of diagnosis?
diagnosis is not viewed as useful because it locates problems in individuals, not systems.
What do family systems therapists use for assessment?
Use of physical space and seating arrangements, Sequences of speaking, Who agrees and disagrees, makes physical and eye contact, and supports or undercuts whom, Which topics increase conflict, and which increase harmony
The therapist’s challenge is to fit the pieces together in a way that makes sense
What is the typical sequence regarding individual and family therapy?
The typical sequence is to begin with individual therapy and parent work separately, and then bring the family members together
What are some ways family systems therapists can facilitate communication?
*It is useful to ask participants how other people feel about issues
*It is useful to translate family members’ messages into less accusatory, more self-disclosive forms that identify valid concerns and so are easier to hear
*Systemic insight can be provided by articulating patterns and rules of interaction that formerly were implicit and unexamined
