Systems Theory, Role Theory, Group Work, and Family Systems Theory

Question 1

closed system

Answer 1

uses up its energy and dies

Question 2

differentiation

Answer 2

becoming specialized instructure and function

Question 3

entropy

Answer 3

closed, disorganized, stagnant; using up available energy

Question 4

equifinality

Answer 4

arriving at the same end from different beginnings

Question 5

homeostasis

Answer 5

steady state

Question 6

input

Answer 6

obtaining resources from environment that are necessary to attain goals of the system

Question 7

negative entropy

Answer 7

exchange of energy and resources between systems that promote growth and transformation

Question 8

open system

Answer 8

system with cross boundary exchange

Question 9

output

Answer 9

a product of the system that exports to the environment

Question 10

suprasystem

Answer 10

entity that is served by a number of component systems organized in interacting relationships

Question 11

throughput

Answer 11

energy that is integrated into the system so it can be used by the system to accomplish its goals

Question 12

role ambiguity

Answer 12

lack of clarity of role

Question 13

role complementarity

Answer 13

role carries out in an expected way (ie parent - child; SWer - client)

Question 14

role discomplementarity

Answer 14

role expectations of others differ from one’s own

Question 15

role reversal

Answer 15

when 2 or more individuals switch roles

Question 16

role conflict

Answer 16

incompatible or conflicting expectations

Question 17

Stages of group development

Answer 17

1. Preaffiliation - forming: development of trust
2. power and control - storming: struggles for individual autonomy and group identification
3. Intimacy - Norming: Utilizing self in service of the group
4. Differentiation - performing: Acceptance of each other as distinct individuals
5. Separation/termination - adjourning: Independence

Question 18

Assumptions of family systems approach

Answer 18

-families strive for a sense of balance or homeostasis
-negative feedback loops are patterns of interaction that maintain stability or constancy while minimizing change. Negative feedback loops help to maintain homeostasis. Positive feedback loops, are patterns of interaction that facilitate change or movement toward either growth or dissolution