Bowen family systems theory is a human behavior model that perceives the family as an emotional unit. This theory utilizes systems thinking in explaining the unit’s multifaceted connections. Generally, it is the family’s nature that its members become intensely inked emotionally. This paper analyzes Ana’s case study using the Bowen family model.
The Theory’s Concepts
The Bowen family model has various concepts that make it the most suitable theory for Ana’s case study. For example, the triangle idea explains that this relationship relies on a three-person association arrangement. In this case, the triangles have two folks: the “outside” swarm and the “in” group. This concept occurs when the family or relationship experiences depression. The second concept is the nuclear family emotional process that describes several simple patterns in an association that Oversees where the problems emanate from in the family (Calatrava et al., 2021). These issues may include emotional distance, children’s impairment, one spouse becoming dysfunctional, and marital conflict. The third concept is the separation that deals with the person and their family. However, the qualifications of folks and their family differentiate in breakup to self (Calatrava et al., 2021). The fourth idea is the multigenerational transmission cycle. This process demonstrates how children’s and parents’ separation occurs in a multigenerational family (Calatrava et al., 2021). The last concept is the family projection measure. Generally, this idea examines how parents project their emotional issues on their kids.
The Rationale for Choosing the Theory
This paper selected the Bowen family systems theory over others because it works with a person and how a family’s background influences the individual’s life (Calatrava et al., 2021). Therefore, it zooms in on the family rather than precisely on the patient alone. Although Ana came alone for the counseling, there may be underlying problems that involve the entire family. Thus, this theory will help learn the issues Ana’s family experiences, leading to her developing depression. The strategic model appears limited to ideas and processes than Bowen family systems theory. Also, strategic and structural approaches remain centered on family problems, and sadly Ana’s members are absent to assist.
Counseling Objectives
The primary goal of Bowen family systems theory entails teaching Ana how to separate from the family. However, this client only requires to distance herself from the family partially. In this case, the model will assist Ana in learning how to react to future associations and deal with depression and stress. Also, therapists may attend to mental health conditions like depression, stress, low confidence, and anxiety by looking at the origin of disastrous and hopeful family experiences (Nabavi Hesar et al., 2018). Ana can plan family designs with a monogram with the assistance of a therapist. The client can further begin comprehending the intentions that some problems might have created. Ana may defeat fears, achieve harmony, and attain objectives by dedicating time to work through family issues.
Theory Design
This model remains founded on long-term counseling. However, Ana’s insurance authorized only eight therapy sessions, requiring the involved parties to study more in those meetings. These therapies can take extended periods to complete, but it relies on the patient and how they overcome their problems (Nabavi Hesar et al., 2018). The treatment must help Ana cope with day-to-day life and stop worrying.
Counselor’s Role
The therapist’s responsibility in this client’s sessions involves ensuring Ana remains focused. In this case, the counselor must ensure this patient focuses on her life. The psychotherapist should comfort this client that worries are barriers but have solutions (Nabavi Hesar et al., 2018). Generally, the counselor must assist Ana in achieving the intended objectives. This therapist should teach Ana how the family systems operate to avoid developing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Client’s Responsibility
Ana’s role entails remaining open and honest about the counseling procedure by letting the therapist know all the issues bothering her. The patient must also work and observe the family’s interactions. Ana should utilize every learned principle to alter how she relates with family members. This patient must use every tool the counselor provides to make the sessions fruitful (Nabavi Hesar et al., 2018). However, the client must accept instructions from the therapist to achieve the set goals.
Population, Cultural, and Social Needs
Bowen Family systems theory is most appropriate for the homeless population. Due to this group’s presenting issues, this model offers a suitable framework to view such problems. Family members must balance outside and inward separation (Dolz-del-Castellar & Oliver, 2021). In this case, Ana may achieve this situation through triangulation, causing anxiety and homework undertakings. Sibling positions, family unit enthusiastic cycles, and multigenerational transmission designs will lead to a unit personality mass (Calatrava et al., 2021). This phenomenon will further influence Ana and her family members. Therefore, this theory fits every culture and social level.
Additional Facts
The therapist may want to know whether Ana was always alone growing up. It is vital to understand Ana’s relationship with the father of her son. This situation will inform the counselor regarding their interactions and whether Ana expressed her feelings to her significant other. These issues will help explain why Ana has anxiety and never wants assistance from her family.
Risk
The major peril in utilizing this approach involves Ana shutting down completely. As a result, Ana may not be honest and open to the counselor. This approach might remind Ana about her past injuries, leading to a more profound depression. The therapist’s methodology may not be appropriate because this client has some underlining problems (Nabavi Hesar et al., 2018). Also, Ana might stop attending the sessions, resulting in unattained objectives.
Conclusion
This paper used the Bowen family systems model to analyze Ana’s case study because it tackles individual and family issues. It explained the theory’s concepts most appropriate to this scenario. The paper described the reasons for selecting this model, counseling objectives, the therapist’s and client’s responsibilities during therapy, and the designation of long or short-term psychoanalysis. It further outlined the population for which this theory is most suitable, cultural and social needs, risks, and additional information.
References
Calatrava, M., Martins, M. V., Schweer-Collins, M., Duch-Ceballos, C., & Rodríguez-González, M. (2021). Differentiation of self: A scoping review of Bowen Family Systems Theory’s core construct. Clinical Psychology Review, 91, 102101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2021.102101
Dolz-del-Castellar, B., & Oliver, J. (2021). Relationship between family functioning, differentiation of self and anxiety in Spanish young adults. PLOS ONE, 16(3), e0246875. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0246875
Nabavi Hesar, J., Arfi, M., & Yoosefi, N. (2018). Comparing the efficacy of Family therapy based on Bowen’s family systems theory and logotherapy on the divorce applicant clients’ tendency to marital infidelity. Journal of Counseling Research, 17(66), 59–97. http://irancounseling.ir/journal/article-1-837-en.html
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