Family Systems Therapy

Chapter 13 Summary:

Family systems theory places a heavy emphasis on different systems, specifically the family system and the various relationships it is composed of. It does not view psychological problems as stemming from a specific individual, but rather a result of repetitive patterns within the family. Viriginia Satir and Murray Bowen played key roles in this theory with their own unique approach. Satir had a heavier focus on the individual’s self-esteem and the communication patterns within the family. Bowen’s theory focuses more on the origin of family issues. Bowen’s theory emphasizes breaking away from family origin issues before dealing with current relationship difficulties. The Family systems theory has often been criticized as it upholds middle-class, Caucasian values and it not very applicable across cultures.

Area of interest:

I find some usefulness within this theory in my field as a graduate hall director. A lot of students come to college struggling with issues with their family, both in the past and present. I believe a good mix should come from both Satir and Bowen. As a GHD, I have emphasized to my students to communicate with their parents on how they’re feeling. However, I do believe it can some times be helpful to break away from their past problems before focusing on new ones.

Family Session: Judy, Pam, and Adrian

This video made me think a lot of Satir’s approach. The therapist was focusing on the different words and the ways the mother Judy was communicating with Pam. He was telling her how if she wanted to say something about Pam’s blouse she should ask her first before saying it. He mentioned this because Pam got mad whenever Judy made comments about her. This focus on the communication would help both Pam and Judy in the end.