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This seems to be a popular theory on the exam. As with all the family therapy theories, I would know the key terms associated with each theory, and what those terms mean, goals of therapy, and interventions used.
Extended Family Systems, also known as Intergenerational Family Therapy, or even Bowenian Therapy (named after the founder Murray Bowen) extends family systems theory beyond the nuclear family and describes the functioning of the extended family and its members in terms of eight interrelated concepts:
Differentiation of Self
Nuclear Family Emotional System
Emotional Triangles
Family Projection Process
Sibling Position
Emotional Cutoff
Multigenerational Transmission Process
Societal Regression
The primary goals of therapy are to alleviate chronic anxiety and other symptoms and raise each family memberās level of differentiation. Bowen also believes in working with the family member with the highest level of differentiation since increased differentiation by this person is likely to motivate other family members to self-differentiate. Differentiation is the ability to separate oneās feelings from oneās thoughts.Ā
Bowen used specific techniques such as the genogram to help family members recognize problematic patterns of behavior and identify ways to change them. Other tools and techniques include the Process Questions, Parable and Stories, the āIā Position, and Home Visits. I encourage you to look up and learn more about these specific techniques in preparation for your exam.Ā
Is there anything else you would add that is helpful to know about Extended Family Systems? Share below in the comments. Stay tuned for a question soon!