Demystifying Family Systems Theory
An Overview of Bowen's Theory and Practice
"After
my early family therapy training, which had left me with various unrelated concepts
floating loose in my brain, I was immediately attracted to the intelligently constructed,
elaborate yet flexible framework of family systems ideas presented in Bowen's theory."
Betty Carter. Family Therapy Networker, 1991.
This workshop will provide an opportunity for a thorough exploration of this meta model. It will present Bowen’s ideas and show their links to an understanding of self and human systems as well as the theory’s application to clinical practice and workplace dynamics. The application of theory will be reviewed in relation to staying out of triangles, techniques for de-triangling, inviting differentiation and expanding the presenting problem to include the family of origin.
Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory was one of the first comprehensive theories of family systems functioning. In any family the connectedness and reactivity make the functioning of members interdependent. A change in one persons functioning is predictably followed by reciprocal changes in functioning of others. Bowens 8 interlocking concepts were derived from his years of family research and his knowledge of evolutionary processes
Part 1
How did Bowen develop his theory? -From psychoanalytic training to family research.
Seeing patterns that are present in all relationship systems.
Understanding anxiety systemically. Chronic and acute anxiety.
The tension of the togetherness and separateness force.
The concept of Fusion.
Understanding Emotional cut-off.
Differentiation of self.
Understanding relationship Triangles.
The use of the concept of triangles in therapy and in the workplace.
Part 2
Understanding the Nuclear Family Emotional System . Where symptoms appear: Couple conflict, symptoms in one spouse and symptoms in a child.
Understanding the Family Projection Process . How anxious projection is absorbed in the next generation.
The Multi generational Transmission Process . Understanding variations in functioning in each generation.
Working on self through understanding previous generations.
Sibling position and how to use the concept as a teaching tool for clients.
The Societal Emotional Process . How far reaching are the applications of Bowens model?
Currents trends and comparisons to other models. Those who successfully complete this workshop may wish to continue with the second part of our "Demystifying Family Systems Theory" series
From Thinking to Doing: The Application of Family Systems Theory
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