Family Systems and Humanistic Theories

Summary

Family systems and humanistic are major theories that cover vital concepts used in therapy. The humanistic approach assumes that everyone in a family is worthy, able, and ought to be respected. The concept focuses majorly on an individual and how the world affects their behavior and thoughts (Protacio, 2019). Any family member is of goodwill if provided with decent conditions to live in, especially during their childhood. The theory emphasizes members are accessible in a family since each has to take personal responsibility for self-development and satisfaction. Humanistic therapists approach deals on an individual basis, since they believe that every person is unique and different. Experiences in thinking, perceiving, remembering, and senses are the primary keys that affect human behavior and are vital during therapy.

Moreover, family system theory suggests that the ability of a person to react to anxiety, think independently, and cope with daily variables is essential when dealing with examining individual objectives. People with less developed differentiation seek validation from others; they experience emotional union, especially when around relatives. Similarly, those with developed variation achieve their satisfaction because they can maintain individualism and still keep group contact. In a family, a system of three people can provide more ways in which anxiety can be managed than a structure of two individuals. For instance, parents can be involved in their children’s relationship and help them reduce stress. Sibling position in a family can also influence children’s behavior. The older ones assume parent roles when adults are not around. Little ones are inclined to imitate what their elder relations do because they believe that grown-up people are always right.

Family system theory observes the family as a whole, while the humanistic approach focuses on an individual. It is easy to manage anxiety in a bigger family than in a smaller one. In contrast, in humanistic theory, each individual is unique, and their case should be handled differently. In a family system, siblings can influence each other on conducts. Still, in humanistic theory, individuals’ behavior is influenced by their own experiences, memories, and feelings throughout their lives. Family system theory suggests that when members encounter a problem, the standard support enhances finding a solution faster. In this scenario, principles in society can affect an individual’s pursuit of achieving their objectives. Still, the humanistic theory claims that there is free will; every person is responsible for their goal achievement.

Weaknesses in the Theories Application

By humanism depending on individual experience may make it difficult to measure and study personal variables and features. The humanistic theory emphasizes collecting qualitative information, making it challenging to calculate and substantiate the examinations made in therapy. Lack of quantitative data makes it hard to compare it with otter qualitative information, and the empirical evidence cannot support other concepts in this theory. Critics suggest that it is not effective in handling severe mental problems. The humanistic approach also has generalized human nature and has left out vital behaviorist concepts (Hess, 2019). Moreover, family system theory is ineffective due to its limited approach in empirical evidence. Proponents suggest that the neutrality of the process is unwavering. The concept suggests that therapists may be giving tactic approval to any harmful behaviors by remaining neutral and serene and exposing themselves and others.

References

Ames, N. (2016). Writing clearly for clients: What social workers should know. Social Work, 61(2), 167-169. Web.

Goldberg, A., & Garcia, R. (2016). Gender-typed behavior over time in children with lesbian, gay, and heterosexual parents. Journal of Family Psychology, 30(7), 854-865. Web.

Hess, R. (2019). Review of the earth has a soul: C. G. Jung on nature, technology, and modern life. The Humanistic Psychologist, 47(2), 203-208. Web.

Protacio, M. (2019). How positioning affects english learners’ social interactions around reading. Theory into Practice, 58(3), 217-225. Web.

Thennakoon, N. (2020). Fitness and propriety assessment to ensure financial firms have good people doing right things during perilous times. SSRN Electronic Journal. Web.

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