Family Systems Theory Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

Who developed family systems theory?

Murray Bowen

According to family systems theory, what is the basic common reality for all families that comes with living and expresses itself emotionally and physically?

anxiety

How does family systems theory define family?

as a system of interrelated, interdependent people whereby each person is intimately and intricately connected to others, like a living organism

What are the characteristics of family systems according to family systems theory?

The system is made up of interrelated elements and structure that create the whole; individuals interact in predictable patterns that are repeated; the system maintains an equilibrium; the system establishes rules, patterns, and messages about openness of boundaries; the system functions by the composition law; the system maintains subsystems that include alliances. Signup and view all the answers

How is birth order relevant to family systems theory?

It influences general patterns of behavior by affecting a person's choice of strategies to get needs met within the family. Signup and view all the answers

What are the common characteristics of only children?

Little adult by age 7; very thorough; deliberate; high achiever; self-motivated; fearful; cautious; all or nothing thinker; can't bear to fail; very high expectations of self; more comfortable with people who are older or younger. Signup and view all the answers

What are the common characteristics of middle children?

Mediator; compromising; diplomatic; avoids conflict; independent; loyal to peers; many friends; nonconformist; secretive; unspoiled; entrepreneur; more liberal than firstborns. Signup and view all the answers

What are the common characteristics of firstborns?

Perfectionist; reliable; conscientious; list maker; well organized; hard driving; natural leader; critical; serious; scholarly; logical; doesn't like surprises; males are more physically aggressive; females are more verbally aggressive. Signup and view all the answers

What are the common characteristics of last borns?

Manipulative; charming; blames others; attention seeker; tenacious; people person; natural salesperson; precocious; engaging; affectionate; loves surprises; more liberal than firstborns. Signup and view all the answers

How does the birth order researcher differentiate firstborns and later borns?

Firstborns are natural leaders and most U.S. presidents have been firstborns. Later borns are more innovative than firstborns. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to describe the family as an ecosystem?

It means that the members of the family are interdependent, affecting each other's thoughts, feelings, and actions. Signup and view all the answers

According to family systems theory, what two basic forces does family functioning and development rest on?

Balancing the drive for individuality and togetherness. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to families with less effective methods of dealing with anxiety?

They are more vulnerable to stressors, more prone to dysfunctions, and dysfunctions are more likely to be chronic. Signup and view all the answers

What are some positive ways that families deal with anxiety?

Daily routines and structure; humor; shared meals and traditions; sports and exercise; music and movies and art; travel; hobbies. Signup and view all the answers

What are some negative ways that families deal with anxiety?

Sarcasm; shaming; ridicule; contempt; criticism; defensiveness; stonewalling; running away; alcohol and drug abuse. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Family Systems Theory Overview

Developed by Murray Bowen, who was part of a large, close-knit family in Tennessee.
Family systems theory emphasizes the influence of family dynamics on individuals.

Core Concepts

Basic Reality: Anxiety is the foundational emotional experience for families.
Family as a System: Families are interrelated and interdependent, similar to a living organism.

Characteristics of Family Systems

Composed of interrelated elements that create a whole.
Interactions occur in predictable patterns.
Maintains a state of equilibrium.
Establishes unwritten rules about openness and boundaries.
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts (composition law).
Contains subsystems with specific rules and alliances.

Birth Order Influence

Birth order affects general patterns of behavior and personal strategies within the family hierarchy.
Each child has a unique position that impacts their identity and relations with family members.

Characteristics by Birth Order

Only Children: Highly motivated, thorough, cautious, fearful of failure, often prefer older or younger peers.
Middle Children: Act as mediators, independent, nonconformist, and loyal to friends.
Firstborns: Perfectionists, reliable, natural leaders, critical, and tend to be more serious.
Last Borns: Charming, attention-seeking, engaging, affectionate, and often more liberal.

Firstborns vs. Later Borns

Firstborns frequently take on leadership roles, with many U.S. presidents being firstborns.
Later borns tend to be more innovative and adaptable.

Family as an Ecosystem

Family members are interdependent, affecting each other's emotions and actions.
Members rely on one another for emotional support and approval.

Forces in Family Functioning

Balance between individuality (self-identity) and togetherness (family connection) is crucial.
Healthy relationships arise from this balance; imbalance leads to dysfunction.

Coping with Anxiety in Families

Positive Coping Mechanisms: Daily routines, humor, shared meals, and engaging in arts or sports.
Negative Coping Mechanisms: Sarcasm, shaming, defensiveness, substance abuse.

Effects of Ineffective Anxiety Management

Families that struggle with anxiety are more vulnerable to stress and chronic dysfunction.

Differentiation in Family Systems

Differentiation: The process of developing a strong sense of self while maintaining emotional connections to the family.

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Description

Test your knowledge of Family Systems Theory with these flashcards. Learn about key figures like Murray Bowen and the foundational concepts of anxiety as it relates to family dynamics. Perfect for students or anyone interested in psychology and family studies.