Systemic Theory and Practise Flashcards
What is systemic theory?
A psychotherapeutic approach that examines problems within the context of relationships, culture, and environment, rather than seeing them as residing solely within individuals.
What is the medical model in mental health?
A traditional approach treating mental disorders as biological diseases (e.g., neurotransmitter imbalances), using diagnostic frameworks like DSM and ICD.
Define “dominant discourse.”
Widely accepted societal beliefs and narratives that shape how we view experiences, including mental health, often marginalizing lived experiences.
What is homeostasis in family systems?
Families strive for balance or stability; disruptions (e.g., illness, addiction) require relational adjustments to restore equilibrium.
What is a double bind?
A communication pattern where a person receives contradictory messages, leading to confusion and distress (e.g., being told, “Be honest,” but punished for honesty).
Explain circular causality.
Problems are maintained through feedback loops in relationships, avoiding simplistic cause-effect explanations (e.g., behaviours influence and are influenced by others).
What is “formulation” in systemic therapy?
A collaborative, non-blaming approach to understanding problems in their relational and contextual framework, often used instead of diagnosis.
What is 2nd order cybernetics?
An evolved systemic practice incorporating reflexivity, power dynamics, and collaborative meaning-making, where therapists are part of the system, not detached observers.
How does homeostasis manifest in family systems?
Example: A mother’s alcohol dependence post-childbirth causes role shifts. The father becomes controlling, the eldest daughter assumes a “parent role,” and the family struggles to adjust post-recovery.
Give an example of a double bind.
A parent encourages open communication (“Speak your mind”) but punishes disagreement, leading the child to suppress feelings.
How might ADHD symptoms be understood systemically?
Example: A child struggling at school post-migration may display symptoms better understood as a trauma response and cultural adjustment, not ADHD.
What is meant by relational dynamics in systemic theory?
Problems are relational, not individual, with behaviours mutually influencing one another (e.g., “nagging” and “withdrawal” in a couple).
What is the family life cycle?
Transitions (e.g., childbirth, adolescence) can destabilize families, creating stress but also opportunities for growth (e.g., struggles when a child leaves for university).
Define “scripts” in systemic theory.
Patterns of interaction passed through generations (e.g., avoiding conflict due to growing up in a violent household).
What are the core characteristics of systemic practice?
- Collaborative and non-blaming.
- Focus on relationships, context, and meaning-making.
- Therapists co-create solutions with families.
