STRUCTURAL FAMILY THERAPY

from short form to remember

■ IN A NUTSHELL: YOUR SUMMARY- STRUCTURAL FAMILY THERAPY

Problems stem from dysfunctional structure (boundaries/hierarchy); therapy reorganizes the
system

Boundaries:

Closeness rules
Example: Enmeshed vs disengaged

Subsystems:

Family groupings Example: Parent-child

Coalitions:

Alliances Example: 2 vs 1

Hierarchy:

Power order Example: Parents lead

Role of Symptom:

Maintains system Example: Child distracts conflict

Joining:

Therapist connects
Example: Build rapport

Accommodating:

Adjust to family style Example: Match communication

4 Goals:

Restructure system Example: Improve hierarchy

■ INTERVENTIONS -Enactments:

Act interactions
Example: Show conflict

Boundary Making:

Adjust closeness Example: Strengthen roles

Systemic Reframing:

Change meaning Example: Behavior reinterpreted

Unbalancing:

Shift power Example: Support one member

Challenging Worldview:

Change beliefs Example: Alter perceptions

Shaping Competence:

Build skills Example: Reinforce strengths