Family Systems Therapy
We get it, families are often far from the picture perfect happy holiday cards we receive in the mail every year. While every family experiences conflict, a lot of families don’t know how to handle that conflict in a healthy and productive way. Bowen family systems therapy focuses on the relationships within a family and how they interact with each other. It is based on the following principles:
- The family is a system: Bowenian family therapy views the family as a complex system of interconnected individuals who influence and are influenced by one another.
- Emotions are contagious: The emotions and behaviors of one family member can have a ripple effect on the rest of the family.
- Differentiation of self: Bowenian family therapy emphasizes the importance of individuals being able to maintain a clear sense of self and individuality within the context of their family relationships.
- Triangles: In Bowenian family therapy, the concept of triangles refers to the dynamic of three people in a relationship. It is believed that when two people have a problem, they often bring in a third person to help relieve tension and avoid dealing with the issue directly.
- Nuclear family emotional process: This refers to the way that unresolved emotional issues from one generation can be passed down to the next, impacting the emotional functioning of the entire family system.
- Multigenerational transmission process: This concept refers to the way that patterns of behavior and relationship dynamics within a family can be passed down from one generation to the next.
Some benefits of Bowenian family therapy include:
- Improved communication: Bowenian family therapy can help families improve their communication skills and learn how to express their thoughts and feelings in a healthy way.
- Increased understanding: Therapy can help family members gain a deeper understanding of each other's needs, values, and perspectives, which can improve the overall quality of their relationships.
- Improved problem-solving skills: Therapy can help families develop better problem-solving skills, which can be especially helpful when it comes to resolving conflicts and working through challenges.
- Increased awareness: Bowenian family therapy can help individuals become more self-aware and better understand how their actions and behaviors affect the dynamics of the family system.
- Improved relationships: Therapy can help families improve their relationships with each other and build stronger, more supportive bonds.
Overall, Bowenian family therapy can be a valuable resource for families looking to improve their relationships and create a more positive and healthy family dynamic.