Theories & Models Flashcards
Systems Theory
When one thing changes within a system, the whole system is effected.
System as a whole with parts that work together.
Closed System
Uses up its energy and dies
Differentiation
Becoming specialized in structure and function
Entropy
Closed, disorganized, stagnant; using up available energy
Equifinality
Arriving at the same end from different beginnings
Homeostasis
Steady state
Input
Obtaining resources from the environment that are necessary to attain the goals of the system
Negative Entropy
Exchange of energy and resources between systems that promote growth and transformation
Open system
A system with cross-boundary exchange
Output
Product of the system that exports to the environment
Subsystem
A major component of a system made up of two or more interdependent components that interact in order to attain their own purpose(s) and the purpose(s) of the system in which they are embedded
Suprasystem
An entity that is served by a number of component systems organized in interacting relationships
Throughput
Energy that is integrated into the system so it can be used by the system to accomplish its goals
Family Systems Assumptions
- Each family is more than a sum of its members
- Each family is unique
- A healthy family has flexibility, consistent structure, and effective exchange of information
- The family is an interactional system whose component parts have constantly shifting boundaries
- Families must fulfill a variety of functions for each member
- Families strive for homeostasis
- Negative feedback loops are patterns of interaction that maintain stability
- Families are goal-oriented
Genograms
Diagrams of family relationships
