GENERAL SYSTEMS / CYBERNETICS

short form to remember

CONCEPTUALIZATION- General Systems Theory:

Family is an interconnected system Example: One member affects whole family

GENERAL SYSTEMS / CYBERNETICS

■ IN A NUTSHELL:

Families operate as systems with repeating interaction patterns that maintain stability

(homeostasis); problems are maintained by cycles, not one person.

Cybernetics:

Systems regulate via feedback Example: Family repeats patterns
Negative Feedback:

Positive Feedback:

Promotes change Example: New behavior shifts system
First Order Change:

Second Order Change:

Deep structural change Example: Family changes communication

Report/Command:

Content vs relationship meaning Example: Tone changes meaning

Double Bind:

Conflicting messages Example: Be independent but punished

Symmetrical vs Complementary:

Equal vs role-based power Example: Power struggle vs leader/follower

Equifinality:

Different paths same outcome Example: Different families same symptom

Equipotentiality:

Same event different outcomes Example: Same trauma different effects

Second-order Cybernetics:

Therapist part of system Example: Therapist affects family

Social Constructionism:

Meaning created socially Example: Language shapes reality

Constructivism:

Individuals create meaning Example: Each person perceives differently

Critical Theory:

Power/oppression influence systems Example: Social inequality impacts family

Homeostasis:

System resists changeExample: Family returns to old patterns

Reframing:

Change meaning Example: Behavior seen differentl