My professional philosophy developed from extensive study and personal experience with studying how different “systems” (family, community, church, educational, social, political) pass down modes of operation, communication, emotional processes and values from generation to generation. I have utilized this theory in helping individuals, couples and families in my therapy practice, businesses, church congregations and community organizations. I never cease to be amazed by its effectiveness to accurately diagnose the underlying source of problems and creatively offer clearer, more effective means of personal and organizational functioning.
What is Family Systems Theory?
Dr. Murray Bowen (1913-1990), who was an American psychiatrist and a professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University, originated this theory and it's eight interlocking concepts. He said that people have a “thinking brain”, language, complex psychology and culture, but people still do all the ordinary things other forms of life do. The emotional system affects most human activity and is the principal driving force in the development of mental health problems. Knowledge of how the emotional system operates in one's family, work and social systems can reveal new and more effective options for solving problems in each of these areas.
