Bowen Family Systems Theory

Family systems theory developed by Murray Bowen is used by social workers, family therapists, and psychologists alike. The theory focuses on naturally occurring systems which are written in nature and not just created by humanity. Murray Bowen's family systems theory was developed and formulated by using systems thinking while integrating knowledge from human species as a product of evolution and family research. His comprehensive model of family systems theory integrates eight interlocking concepts, specifically: triangles, differentiation of self, nuclear family emotional system, family projection process, multigenerational transmission process, emotional cutoff, sibling position, and societal emotional process. Utilizing genograms to outline multi-generational relationships, the goal is to become more self-differentiated and achieve greater personal expression. Emotional processes are focused upon rather than their symptomatic content in order to see effects as integral parts of structure rather than an end point of a cause. Symptoms are eliminated by modifying the systems structure by observing and understanding the symptoms nature in relation to its position within the system. The theory suggests this thinking can be applied to any physical or emotional symptom as well as with all family members (couples, children, grandparents) and in any culture.

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