1. Murray Bowan “We are able to change behaviors based on awareness…”
Family Systems Theory
Murray Bowan
“We are able to change behaviors based on awareness…”

2. Awareness
Understanding impact of present and past family patterns of behavior on the choices we make
Can lead to intentional desire to make changes
Refusal to continue cycle

3. Family Nuclear family of origin Includes family history/relationships
Single emotional unit of relationships that intermingle over generations
Family Dynamics – key to understanding current behaviors
Behavior determined by many factors of holistic being

4. Behavior
Preceded by feelings that to some degree can be controlled by the ability to think
Ability to predict our own patterns of response based on an awareness of our family dynamics

5. Level of Differentiation Behavior and Relationships
Degree to which one defines “self” in terms of values and beliefs
Directly correlated to anxiety felt in response to stress
Solid self - behavior based on internal convictions and principles
Pseudo self - behavior reflects outside influence or locus of control

6. Reaction to Anxiety/Stress
Solid self
Adaptable
Flexible
Copes more effectively
Pseudo self
Less adaptive
Less flexible
Relies on external sources to cope

7. Relationships Tend to seek partners of similar differentiation
Open family system – Made up of persons with predominantly solid selves
Closed family system – Willing to compromise values when pressured by outside sources
How would these relationships differ?

8. Closed Family System Dysfunction Fusion
Rigid standards of control and loss of self
Increased anxiety within family

9. Dysfunctional Family System
Emotional distancing
Conflict
Eventual dysfunction of one or more family members
Triangles
Projection to family members creating spiral effect

10. Application – Structuring Family Systems
Nuclear family system
What role does each member play?
What were the relationships?
Was it an open or closed family system?
Was it a flexible environment? Were children allowed to voice opinions?
What type of relationships have developed out of this family?
How has this affected where you are today?