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The application of Bowen Family Systems, Structural, and Strategic Models Theory will be utilized to analyze the case study of Ana. Bowen Family Systems Theory regards the family as an emotional unit and employs systems thinking to explain the intricate interactions within the unit (Kerr, 2000). This paper will explore the relevant concepts of the theory for this case study, rationale for selecting this theory over others, counseling objectives and strategies to achieve them, and the determination of whether short or long term counseling is appropriate.
This paper will cover the counselor's role with Ana, the client's role in counseling, the population suitable for this theory, addressing the social and cultural needs of the client, any additional information relevant to this case, and potential risks of using this approach.
It will also explore what concepts of the theory make it most applicable for the client in the case study, including at least five concepts.
The Bowen Family Systems Theory Approach mentions five key concepts that are relevant to the client in the case study.
One of these concepts is triangles, which are considered to be a three-person relationship system according to Kerr (2000).
These triangles are part of a larger emotional system and involve two "in" group individuals and one "outside" group individual, as noted by Murdock (2013).
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Triangles typically form when anxiety levels increase within a relationship or family, particularly in individuals (or families) with low levels of differentiation as mentioned by Kerr (1981). It is important for counselors to observe how clients react repeatedly to others, as this may indicate that a triangle has been activated (Murdock, 2013).
As for Ana, a triangle has formed in her life as she navigates the worries of survival without her husband and being unemployed.
The concept of differentiation of self is key in understanding this situation.
Murdock (2013) explains that differentiation involves both the individual and the family, while Kerr (2000) underscores how differences in levels of differentiation impact reactions to stress. Those with low levels of differentiation tend to adjust their thinking to fit the situation, while those with high levels can remain calm during conflicts (Kerr, 2000). Bowen (1978) notes that low-differentiated individuals tend to merge their identity with others, particularly in close relationships like marriage.
Titelman (2008) identified an underfunctioning-overfunctioning dynamic in family systems where the weaker individual is more likely to develop symptoms. Ana is the weaker individual in her family as she is unemployed and feeling lost about her future (Grand Canyon University, 2014). The Nuclear Family Emotional Process theory, as described by Kerr (2000), outlines four relationship patterns that lead to problems within a family: marital conflict, dysfunction in one spouse, impairment of a child, and emotional distance. In the case of marital conflict, as tension mounts and anxiety rises, spouses tend to focus on each other's negative traits.
Kerr (2000) discusses various dysfunctional patterns in family relationships. In one scenario, one spouse exerts pressure on the other, resulting in anxiety that may lead to psychiatric, medical, or social issues. In another situation, parents may focus their anxieties on their children, leading to impaired school performance, relationships, and health. Some individuals distance themselves emotionally from others to reduce relationship intensity, risking isolation. The family projection process is highlighted as a key concept describing how parents transmit their emotional problems to their children (Kerr, 2000).
The process of inheriting problems from parents can negatively impact a child's functioning and worsen their clinical symptoms. These problems can include the need for attention and approval, difficulty dealing with expectations, self-blame tendencies, a sense of responsibility for others' happiness, and impulsive behavior to cope with anxiety (Kerr, 2000). Mothers typically take on the primary caregiving role and have more emotional involvement with their child, while fathers often play a more distant role unless there are high levels of tension within the family dynamic (Kerr, 2000).
Even though Ana’s son is only one year old, future problems may arise due to current issues at home and the father being deployed. The fifth concept of the theory focuses on multigenerational transmission process, which explains how small differences in differentiation levels between parents and offspring can lead to significant differentiation differences among members in a multigenerational family over time (Kerr, 2000). What made you select this theory over others?
The concept of Family Systems
The evaluation of Ana's case study used Theory, which centers on the family rather than solely on the individual. Although Ana attended counseling alone, it is likely that there are family-related issues at play. Counseling goals and intervention strategies will address these factors.
The Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST) aims to assist individuals in separating from their family (Titelman, 2008), while still maintaining a connection with them. According to Murdock (2013), this separation should lead to changes in how individuals react in relationships and cope with stress.
Process questioning, as an intervention strategy, can aid in achieving the goal of the BFST by helping individuals avoid the emotional aspects of content questions. Murdock (2013) explains that through asking specific questions, this theory assists in short- or long-term counseling.
The BFST is intended for extensive counseling, with the treatment of each individual possibly lasting years based on their progress in achieving treatment goals (Withers, 2012). The counselor's role with this client will be crucial in facilitating their advancement and success.
In a BFST counseling session, the counselor maintains their objectivity and emotional distance (Kerr, 1981; Murdock, 2013) in order to educate the client about family systems (Murdock, 2013). According to Murdock (2013), a counselor should also engage in their own BFST therapy to effectively treat individuals. What is the client's role in counseling?
Discussing in a BFST counseling session, a client is given the assignment of traveling home to witness family interactions; applying the principles learned; and altering their interactions with the family (Murdock, 2013). Which population(s) is best suited for this theory? How does this theory cater to the social and cultural needs of the client?
BFST goes against the customs of various cultures that emphasize the importance of keeping individuals and families apart (Murdock, 2013). These approaches may not be effective for treating closely bonded Latino or African-American families due to their strong family connections (Sue & Sue, 2008; Falicov & Brudner-White, 1983). What other details would be useful to know in this situation?
Ana is considering including her family in counseling sessions to address potential underlying issues. What potential risks might arise from this approach?
After investigating this theory, some components appear to be measurable and testable (Murdock, 2013, p. 451). Empirical studies of the BFST have shown promising outcomes in areas such as the connection between differentiation, anxiety, relationship satisfaction, and psychological dysfunction (Murdock, 2013; Miller, Anderson, & Keala, 2004). Bowen's hypothesis that individuals select partners with similar levels of differentiation has yielded mixed findings in research, with some studies confirming and others contradicting this idea (Murdock, 2013; Day, St. Clair, & Marshall, 1997; Greene & Mabee, 1992; Kosek). However, research on BFST in family or couples dynamics has received less support.
This paper explores the Bowen Family Systems Theory as the framework for analyzing the case study of Ana. It covers the pertinent concepts of the theory for this particular case study, rationale for choosing this theory over others, counseling goals, intervention strategies, and whether short or long term counseling is necessary. The paper also delves into the roles of both the counselor and client, identifies the ideal population for applying this theory, and addresses the social and cultural considerations specific to the client. Furthermore, it highlights any additional relevant information about the case and potential risks involved.
Analyzing Ana: Bowen Family Systems Theory Approach. (2016, Aug 20). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/bowen-family-systems-structural-and-strategic-models-essay
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