Your Family Tree

Family systems theory, in comparison, views problems in a more circular manner, using what is called a 'systemic perspective'. Both A and B are seen to exist in the context of a relationship, in which each influences the other (the dynamics of the relationship). Understanding problems requires the assessment of patterns of interactions, with an emphasis on what is happening, rather than why.

This approach emphasises the bi-directional nature of relationships, and moves away from blaming one person for the dynamic (with the exception of abusive relationships, where responsibility is clearly placed with the perpetrator).

Symptomatic behaviour is seen as arising out of the inter-related behaviour of all family members. Therefore, in order to gain a better understanding of a young person's situation, their behaviour is explored in the context of their family system, rather than in isolation. The focus is on the pattern of dynamics within a young person's family system, including the effect of the young person's behaviours ¹.
Some of the many influences on family dynamics include:

• nature of the parents' relationship
• having a particularly soft or strict parent
• number of children in the family
• personalities of family members
• an absent parent
• the 'mix' of members who are living in the same household
• level and type of influence from extended family or others
• a chronically sick or disabled child within the family
• events which have affected family members, such as an affair, divorce, trauma, death, unemployment, homelessness
• other issues such as family violence, abuse, alcohol or other drug use, mental health difficulties, other disability
• family values, culture and ethnicity, including beliefs about gender roles, parenting practices, power or status of family members
• nature of attachments in family (ie secure, insecure)
• dynamics of previous generations (parents and grandparents families)
• broader systems- social, economic, political including poverty

There is an attempt to transcend 'either/or' dichotomies, and instead to embrace the idea of 'both/and'. This means that where there are two different theories or ideas (or stories) about what has happened, there is no requirement to reject one, but instead to see both as two sides of the one coin.

One cannot exist without the other, and one gives meaning and contrast to the other. Of course, this assumes goodwill on the part of the people involved; lying and/or manipulative behaviour requires a different approach.

When talking to a young person about their family dynamics, it is important to keep in mind...