Brice Family SYSTEMS

Napier and Whitaker exemplify systems therapy with their presentation of the Brice family case. It is necessary to identify the origins of the systems approach in order to fully appreciate its value in the context of family therapy. It approaches the family unit as a system and therefore borrows heavily from systems theory. Systems theory is a general theory applies across many disciplines and looks at systems that have the ability to self-regulate. The theory applies to biological systems, climate, environment, and the family unit.

Systems approach recognizes the interdependencies that exist in the family as a system. The family unit consists of individuals related to one another forming a complex web that should act in congruence. Therefore, although a part of a system is essential, it is the relationship of the part to the whole that is paramount. The family as a system is dynamic since changes occur every day within the family as a unit and within individuals. Further, it is open in varying degrees to influences of the outside world.

Napier and Whitaker apply systems therapy quite well in their treatise, The Family Crucible. There are several ideas that stand out. First, there are two therapists guiding the family therapy sessions. This is a key...

Usually, one therapist is subjectively involved while the other is the observer who can provide an objective analysis of the family therapy process. This is implies that the therapist delves into the world of the family and in a way becomes one with the family.
Secondly, the systems therapy approach does not seek first to treat the cause or symptoms of imbalance or disharmony within the family system. The focus of the approach is practical since it seeks growth as the family members rediscover themselves and weave new patterns of thinking. In order for the family to move to this new level, the therapist must nudge them and sometimes engage in some conflict with the family. It is clear that the therapist also grows with the family to the new level of thinking and organization.

The Brice family includes David, Carolyn, Claudia, Don, and Laura. Don is the father, Carolyn is the mother, and the others are the children in the family. There is a breakdown of relationships in the family due to certain difficulties. The family attends therapy in order to solve these problems. The main task of the co-therapists is to conceptualize the family's difficulties. Napier and Whitaker (1978) do this through experience…