Family Studies Flashcards
(20 cards)
How does Gladding (2007) define family in therapeutic contexts?
Gladding defines family as ‘persons who are biologically or psychologically related with historical, emotional, or economic bonds and who perceive themselves as part of a household.’
Why is there no universal definition of family?
Definitions vary across cultures, belief systems, and time. What counts as ‘family’ may include kin, close friends, or support systems depending on context and function.
What distinguishes family from other relationships?
Enduring emotional involvement, deep loyalty, and a sense of irreplaceability—even across distance—are hallmarks of family relationships.
What are some types of families acknowledged in therapy?
Biological, adoptive, foster, step, single-parent, child-headed, LGBT families, child-free couples, extended families, and elected families (chosen peers or godparents).
What is a child-headed family?
A family where siblings live without adult caregivers, often due to the death or absence of parents. The oldest child assumes parental responsibilities.
What is an elected family?
A non-biological, non-legal group of individuals (e.g., friends or peers) who form a support network that functions like a family.
What elements define family structure?
Hierarchy (patriarchal/matriarchal)
roles
rules (spoken and unspoken)
communication patterns
interlocking relationships
What are roles in family systems?
Assigned responsibilities within the family (e.g., caregiver, decision-maker) that must be clearly defined and flexible to function effectively.
What are interlocking relationships in families?
Family members’ behaviors are interdependent through circular causality; a change in one member affects the entire system.
What are the biological functions of a family?
Sexual gratification, reproduction, and physical care of members.
What are the economic functions of a family?
Providing food, clothing, shelter, and sometimes joint economic activity like family businesses or farming.
What is the role of the family in socialization?
Families teach culture, norms, customs, language, and practical skills like cooking or farming—both material and non-material aspects of culture.
What psychological functions do families perform?
Providing love, emotional support, stability, and adaptability during life changes or crises.
What is nonsummativity in family therapy?
The family is more than the sum of its parts. It has unique dynamics that cannot be understood by looking at individuals alone.
What does circular causality mean in family therapy?
A feedback loop where behaviors influence each other reciprocally, rather than linearly.
What is homeostasis in family systems theory?
The tendency of a family to maintain internal balance by resisting change and restoring familiar interaction patterns.
How is family conceptualized in addiction treatment?
Family includes anyone providing emotional, financial, or household support with enduring emotional bonds—even if not legally or biologically related.
What is family therapy in substance abuse treatment?
A therapeutic approach that treats the family as the unit of change, using its strengths to promote recovery and healing from substance abuse.
What distinguishes family therapy from family-involved therapy?
Family therapy directly targets family systems and relationships; family-involved therapy focuses on educating members without systemic intervention.
What is family resilience?
The ability of families to adapt to stress and adversity through cohesion, communication, and internal resources, often emerging stronger post-crisis.
