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Unit 9 And Systems Theory And Social Construction

Decent Essays

Unit 9 Cybernetics and Social Construction Cybernetics/systems theory and social constructionism are “two closely related philosophical traditions that inform family therapy approaches” (Gehart, p. 37, 2014). They are the foundation to the various family therapy models used by Marriage and Family Therapist. All forms of family therapy, in one way or another has been influenced by one of these two theories. More traditional forms of therapy such as MRI, Milan and Bowen’s intergenerational and psychoanalytic therapy have been influenced by cybernetics/systems theory. Newer therapies such as narrative, collaborative and solution-based therapies have been influenced by social constructionist theory (Gehart, 2014).
Cybernetics
Function of …show more content…

7-8, 2013). From this perspective, the therapist assumes the role of observer/ participant, creating interdependence between the observer and the observed; this is necessary to create the holistic perspective on which cybernetic/systems theory is built. The worldview of Marriage and Family Therapist centers on the notions of recursion reciprocity, and shared responsibility. Two entities “exists in the context of a relationship in which each influences the other and both are equally cause and effect of each other’s behavior” (Becvar& Becvar, p. 8, 2013), this known as circular causality. Patterns form and I order to understand the problems and events of the relationship, MFT’s need to look at what is going on rather than asking why it is happening.
A MFT’s ” perspective is holistic, and our focus is on the processes – the context – that give meaning to issues and events instead of to the individuals, issues, or events in isolation” (Becvar& Becvar, p. 9, 2013). A MFT’s focus is also on current events. They do not look to events of the past for the archetype of the source of the issue. Family systems theory is focused on the dynamics of the family that deal with the rolls of each family member, the balance of power, structures, communication patterns, and boundaries (Rothbaum, Rosen, Ujiie, & Uchida, 2002).
Major Theorist
In 1942, a mathematician named Norbert Wiener developed the concept of cybernetics during the beginning of World War

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