EP85 Workshop 19 - Family Systems Therapy - Murray Bowen, MD

Description:

Some of the cardinal principles in Family Systems Theory will be presented. It is important to diagnose the emotional posture of principal family members. A videotape of family therapy will be presented and discussed.

Educational Objectives:

1. To know techniques so that therapists no longer take sides in the intense family emotional process
2. To estimate the emotional posture of principle family members 

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*

Outline:

Evolution of Psychotherapy and Family Systems Therapy

• Introduction to the evolution of psychotherapy.
• Explanation of the goal of helping therapists understand and work with families.
• Steve and Kathy’s dynamic is used to illustrate differentiation in families.

Differentiation and Functional Levels in Families

• Differentiation is explained using Steve and Kathy’s relationship.
• One family member may advance in differentiation, impacting the family.
• Helping the most capable member can benefit the entire family.
• Lower differentiation leads to emotional reactivity dominating decision-making.

Kathy’s Separation from Her Family

• Kathy faces challenges reconnecting with family after her parents' death.
• Speaker 2 stresses kindness when rebuilding family relationships.
• Steve uses humor to navigate business challenges and family dynamics.
• Steve takes a child-like stance in his relationship with Kathy.

Walter Toman’s Family Constellation

• Toman’s book on sibling roles and personality traits is recommended.
• Differentiation in parental upbringing influences the eldest son’s traits.
• Understanding sibling positions is key to family dynamics.
• Toman’s upcoming book in French is mentioned.

Cultural and Emotional Dynamics in Families

• Kathy and Steve’s Jewish heritage influences their family interactions.
• Cultural awareness is essential in family therapy.
• Emotional cut-off affects family relationships.
• Steve uses humor to ease tension in a business setting.

Therapeutic Techniques and Family Dynamics

• Therapy should be relaxed and acknowledge human evolution.
• Humor is useful but should not be harsh.
• Leading family therapy requires a research-oriented approach.
• Working with families on TV demands skillful detachment.

Emotional Conflict and Family Immaturity

• Steve and Kathy’s marital issues affect their children.
• Family immaturity appears as emotional, physical, or social struggles.
• Kathy’s health reacts to Steve’s improved family ties.
• Children should not be drawn into adult conflicts.

Instincts, Emotions, and Feelings

• The differences between instincts, emotions, and feelings are explained.
• Instincts in animals shape human behavior.
• Sub-human life forms show more predictable behavior than humans.
• Societal pressures influence instincts and emotions.

Levels of Differentiation and Societal Influence

• Differentiation levels evolve across generations.
• Societal demands and anxiety cycles affect differentiation.
• Parental differentiation shapes children’s development.
• Mothers play a key role in children’s growth, with fathers as supporters.

Cultural and Societal Differences in Differentiation

• Cultural and societal factors impact family differentiation.
• Society influences differentiation levels over time.
• Human behavior follows predictable patterns shaped by societal cycles.
• Families must adapt to external pressures.

Steve and Kathy’s Communication and Business Dynamics

• First impressions influence Steve and Kathy’s relationship.
• Discussing difficult topics is a challenge in their marriage.
• Kathy focuses on Steve’s tone rather than words in business talks.
• Steve recognizes his tendency to escalate discussions.

Kathy’s Relationship with Her Sisters

• Kathy attempts to reconnect with her sisters, meeting resistance.
• One sister reacts angrily, another announces a same-sex relationship.
• Managing their father’s estate creates conflict.
• Kathy’s sisters, like Steve, provoke reactions from her.

Steve’s Family’s Perception of Kathy

• Steve’s family initially viewed Kathy negatively.
• Kathy tried to please them, and relations improved over time.
• Kathy’s family welcomed her return, easing reconnection.
• Differentiation strengthens family relationships.

Therapeutic Approach and Family Dynamics

• Differentiation is key in family therapy.
• Summarizing therapy sessions helps clients reflect.
• The role of leading questions and individual work is discussed.
• Achieving true autonomy requires continuous effort.

Challenges and Strategies in Family Therapy

• Understanding family dynamics is crucial in therapy.
• Courses and sessions help clients apply therapeutic principles.
• Action is necessary for differentiation.
• A comprehensive approach is needed for lasting change.