Family systems therapy

family Systems therapy/Multi generational Family therapy was developed by Murray Bowen based on first generation approach. This is a prescriptive theory in the sense it explains how problems should be restored or needs to be met. This is influenced by systems theory. At its core, it is a classical psychodynamic approach that has been updated and informed by systems theory. Bowen’s theory was a grand theory that sought to describe the  interrelationship of biological, psychological, and sociological levels of understanding. Bowen’s theory not only has been important to the development of the field, but it serves as a primary theoretical orientation for many therapists.

Goal of the therapy :

Goal is not symptom reduction but  improvement in overall functioning that will  ultimately reduce the family member’s symptomatology and inter generational transmission. specific goals are :

• increase differentiation of self (thoughts and emotions, self and others)
• detriangulation
• decrease emotional reactivity
• increase intimacy on -one with important others

Important concepts

Eight major theoretical constructs are essential to understanding Bowen’s approach:

These concepts are

• differentiation,
• emotional system,
• multigenerational transmission,
• emotional triangle, 
• nuclear family,
• family projection process,
• sibling position,and 
• societal regression.
• cut off
• undifferentiated family ego mass
• societal emotional process

These constructs are interconnected.One is unable to understand each of the terms without understanding the other terms. The concept of chronic anxiety holds these constructs together.An underlying assumption in Bowen’s work is that anxiety is a natural product in the process of living.

Assessment tool - Genogram

Some of the videos below along with reference should give a detailed information on Bowen's Family Therapy

 

 

Reference ;
http://www.sagepub.com/upm-data/29841_Chapter5.pdf