Family life cycles Flashcards
What is a positive feedback loop in relation to the the family life cycle theory?
Two units of the family that express behavior that builds on one another (e.g. two yelling parents)
What is a negative feedback loop in relation to the the family life cycle theory?
When one unit of a family expresses a certain behavior, another will express an opposing behavior that calms the other down.
What is meant by the fact that the family may be the patient?
That psych problems are due to issues in the family structure–child may be depressed because not enough support in the family.
What is meant by the term, “identified patient”?
The symptomatic family member
What is mean by “double bind” communication
communication that is both verbal and non-verbal
What are dyads?
Relationships between two people. Source of triangulation
What are the issues with having too tight family boundaries?
Not enough support between family members
lack of structure
What are the issues with having too loose family boundaries?
No self-identity development in children
Child will not develop ability to self regulate as well, or accept blame
What are the dimensions by which healthy vs unhealthy families are distinguished by?
Consistency of rules within family structure
How flexible boundaries are (and if they are too tight/too loose)
Quality of communication between family members (no double bind communication)
What is fusion?
Where rational thinking of individual family members is overwhelmed by emotions due to lack of boundaries
What is the relationship between individual and family functioning?
The individual will express problems in the family, and/or serve to stabilize a family in a way.
(e.g. mom and dad stay together for anorexic daughter).
What is the basic premise of the family cycle theory?
That families are comprised of different units. Individuals are subunits of the family unit, but there are also sibling subunit, (or parents etc.)
