Family Systems Theory Applied to Structural Family Therapy

Introduction to Family Therapy Theories

The concept of family therapy has, over the years, been developed into different approaches with distinct characteristics. These theories have been used to generate solutions to the varied family issues that arise on a regular basis. It is not easy to understand the structure of a family, since there are no universal forms that family problems take. This means that even when applying family systems theories to bring solutions to families, the application depends purely on each family's unique challenges rather than on a universal template. The unique character of each family's difficulties makes it hard to apply a single theoretical system with full confidence that it will work. This reality explains the frequent overlapping of theories. In this paper, strategic family therapy and structural family therapy are applied together to help address the case presented herein.

Session Findings: Communication and Control Patterns

In the provided case study, a couple — Joe and Arlene — present their problem to a family therapist with the hope of resolving their conflict. The central point of disagreement is that they do not agree on how to raise their children, particularly regarding whether to involve the children in solving household problems. Joe feels that Arlene should encourage the children to do as he says, as the father, and should not give them room to negotiate alternative approaches, despite the fact that one of the children is already 14 years old. Joe is clearly the assertive figure in the relationship. Even during the first therapy session, he was the first to speak and went straight to identifying the family's problem as originating from his wife's behavior. He dominates the conversation while Arlene offers only brief interjections.

The dark glasses that Arlene is wearing would not be cause for concern had she not refused to remove them when the therapist requested she do so. Her refusal, though silent, still communicates something. In family therapy, all behavior carries meaning — the refusal to remove the dark glasses tells the therapist that they are not a fashion accessory but a barrier. She uses them to conceal her reactions from her husband and, now, from the therapist as well. They physically mask the internal turmoil she carries.

In line with the theoretical formulation of strategic family therapy, there is a distinction between the report and command functions of communication. In the first session, Joe indicates that he does not approve of Arlene consulting the children about their challenges; he wants the parents to instruct the children rather than invite their input. This is the report function as expressed by both spouses. The command function, however, reveals that Joe wants absolute authority and control over the entire family — he wants to be obeyed without question by any family member, and to be recognized as the highest authority in the household. There is a clear need to restore family homeostasis: the balance that enables each member to feel genuinely part of the family. Of particular importance is restoring Arlene's confidence so that she can function as part of the family's leadership — a model the children, some of whom are now teenagers, can look to for guidance.

In this first session, the therapist also learns that Arlene has much she wants to say but holds back for fear of being compared to her mother. She discloses to the therapist that, although she strongly opposes her husband's approach to the children and does not approve of his parenting style, she would rather stay silent than be accused of behaving like her mother. In the theoretical formulation of structural family therapy, a predetermined family structure appears to be at work here, reinforced by expectations that establish behavioral rules. As a therapist, it is important to recognize that the central struggle is between the wife's wish to change the existing structure and the husband's determination to preserve it.

Cultural Background and Family Structure

Another pertinent issue is that the couple comes from different cultural and social backgrounds — Joe is Hispanic and Arlene is of Asian origin. There is significant potential for these backgrounds to shape each person's assumptions about family roles and positions, and these assumptions may conflict with one another. Cultural differences in expectations about authority, communication, and gender roles can deepen existing friction and must be taken into account when developing a treatment plan. As noted in research on cross-cultural communication, differing cultural frameworks often produce misunderstandings even when both parties are acting in good faith.

Conclusion and Ethical Considerations

Throughout the therapy sessions, the therapist must remain ethical by keeping both spouses fully informed of all developments and by avoiding any form of psychological manipulation that would coerce them into positions the therapist prefers. Both Joe and Arlene should be present together for each session to prevent any unethical practices from arising on either side. The goal throughout is to support the family in developing a communication structure and relational dynamic that is sustainable, equitable, and genuinely built by the family members themselves.

Reference

Nichols, M. P. (2009). Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods.