Family Systems and Third-Wave Approaches & Sociocultural Factors in Mental Health Treatment
Family Systems Approaches
Definition: Family systems theories view the family as an intricate interpersonal system, characterized by its own hierarchy and guiding rules that dictate members' behaviors.
Functionality: A family system can either foster well-being, supporting growth and accepting change, or become dysfunctional, leading to and sustaining psychopathology in one or more members (Prochaska & Norcross, 2014).
Perspective on Psychopathology: When a family member exhibits a psychological disorder, family systems theorists interpret it not as an individual failing but as a symptom of a dysfunctional family system. The specific manifestation of psychopathology is influenced by the complex interplay of the family's cohesion, adaptability to change, and communication style (Prochaska & Norcross, 2014).
Types of Dysfunctional Family Systems:
Inflexible Family: Resistant and isolated from external influences, struggling to adapt to internal family changes (e.g., a child entering adolescence).
Enmeshed Family: Characterized by excessive involvement of each member in the lives of others, leading to a lack of personal autonomy and feelings of being controlled.
Disengaged Family: Members pay minimal attention to each other, operating as independent units isolated from other family members.
Pathological Triangular Relationships: Parents avoid direct conflict by consistently involving their children in their conversations and activities.
Example: A family theorist examining Steven Hayes' anxiety would explore his family's functioning during his upbringing and its ongoing adult influence.
Research Focus - Eating Disorders: Some research on family systems and psychopathology specifically targets disorders in children, particularly eating disorders (Treasure & Cardi, 2017).
Anorexia Nervosa: Many young girls developing eating disorders are part of enmeshed families. Their parents are often overly controlling and invested in their children's success, causing the children to feel stifled and dependent.
Anorexia nervosa, marked by refusal to eat and emaciation, may be a child's attempt to assert control.
The family system often inadvertently supports the anorexia, making it a central point and justification for the enmeshment, rather than facilitating recovery.
Family Systems Therapy: This therapeutic approach is founded on the belief that individual problems stem from interpersonal systems, primarily family systems. Effective treatment necessitates addressing the entire family system responsible for creating and sustaining the individual's issues.
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