What is Family Systems Therapy?

In the 1950s, psychiatrist Murray Bowen developed the family systems approach, also known as family systems therapy. This approach recognizes families as emotional units, interconnected systems of interdependent individuals. It emphasizes that family members influence one another, and their psychological well-being cannot be fully understood in isolation from the entire family system.

According to Bowen's theory, family members respond to each other in predictable ways based on their roles and unspoken relationship agreements. These behavioral patterns can contribute to maintaining balance within the family but can lead to dysfunction. Understanding this, the family systems approach aims to address and resolve issues within the family unit.

How does Family Systems Therapy work?

The family systems approach aims to help families recognize these principles within their relationships and work towards developing healthier and more functional dynamics.

The family systems approach has eight principles:

Differentiation of self: The development of individuality and independence, rather than relying solely on others within the family or social groups.

The triangle: The relationship dynamic involving three individuals, which can impact relationships with others within the family system.

The nuclear family emotional process: Patterns of relational dynamics within the family, including marital conflicts, dysfunction in one spouse, challenges faced by children, and emotional distance.

The family projection process: When parents unconsciously project their emotions or anxieties onto their children, who may then displace those feelings onto others.

The multi-generational transmission process: Small differences in differentiation between parents and children can lead to significant variations in differentiation among extended family members over time.

Sibling position: The influence of birth order on the dynamics between children, siblings, and parents.

Emotional cutoff: When unresolved conflicts within the family result in some individuals completely severing relationships.

Emotional processes in society: Acknowledging that broader social and cultural forces can shape and influence family relationships.

Who can Family Systems Therapy help?

Families facing relationship challenges, couples seeking more satisfying relationships,  parents and children experiencing conflicts, members of blended families or families with complicated dynamics, and anyone looking for a way to understand how their family works.

References: Psychology Today, Newport Academy, The Bowen Center, Monmouth University, The Brain Possible

Marcus Berley is a Self Space Seattle therapist who works with high-achieving people who want to access the deeper areas of their lived experience, including individuals who struggle to fully enjoy their success and couples who struggle to address conflict and cultivate a more intimate connection.