Family Systems, Conflict, and Crisis Family systems theory Transactional patterns Types and topics of conflict Conflict resolution Functions of conflict Types of crises Theories of response to crisis

The Family System A set of interrelated parts or subsystems. Each part serves function for whole; whole supports each part. Strives toward equilibrium. Resists sudden change. Has goals. Must be treated as a whole

Three types of systems Open: Flexible Democratic Stresses disclosure of feelings Random: Chaotic Individualist Avoids real interaction Few or no rules Closed: Rigid Cohesive Stresses loyalty, duty

Transactional Pattern Family's characteristic pattern of interacting. Includes Habits Rules of communication Nature of relationships Definition of reality Feedback

Pseudomutuality May be dysfunctional pattern Includes: rigid role expectations fear of change lack of spontaneity lack of affection May appear affectionate and loving in public.

Types of Family Conflict Situational - everyday events, minor, easily resolved Personality - most difficult to resolve Structural - major decisions, roles, power

Topics of Marital Conflict # 1 topic: Money Also: Sex, Children Underlying these may be the BASIC conflict: Does s/he still love me? Do I still love him/her? Do we still accept our marital roles?

Stages in Conflict Management 1. Arguing 2. Fighting fairly 3. Bargaining 4. Mediation 5. If above steps fail, separation

Functions of conflict Maintains boundaries Helps recognize the other Improves communication

Crisis Event that brings change in family roles and structure Outcome may be positive or negative (e.g. growth, adaptation, dysfunction, dissolution) Chinese character: crisis = opportunity

Types of Crisis Situational: serious problem, arises out of individual situation or circumstances (unemployment, extramarital affair, alcoholism, abuse, etc.) Developmental: life cycle event or transition (marriage, birth, retirement, etc.) Endemic: widespread stress (war, famine, economic recession, etc.)

Faber’s stages of response Keep existing roles; denial Face problem Make problem public Reorganization Freezing out (person or behavior)

Hill: Families respond differently to crisis Response depends on Definition of problem Internal structure (flexibility, cohesiveness) Resources (social, emotional, material, informational) Origin of problem internal/ external expected/ unexpected

Adams: Classifying problems PERMANENT Examples: divorce, departure of children Reponse: freeze out person Examples: disability, mental illness, addiction Examples: violence, delinquency, infidelity Response: freeze out behavior Examples: physical illness, unemployment Response: wait it out INVOLUNTARY VOLUNTARY TEMPORARY