Family Systems
A Journal of Natural Systems Theory in Psychiatry and the
Sciences
Back Issues
Contents of Family Systems Volume 2, Number 1
ARTICLES
Family constellation Theory Revisited
Part 2
Walter Toman, PhD
pp. 3-16
After a brief historical introduction the theory of family constellation is presented in a simple paradigm, followed by a review of the empirical data from our comprehensive research including double and triple checks where possible. Research of others in pertinent aspects of the theory is also reviewed. Basic and more complex sibling positions, their combinations in partnerships and friendships, and their roles in parent-child relations are analyzed. The effects of losses of family members upon the development of individuals and families and family life are also analyzed. Their significance in the conduct of individual and family therapy is outlined.
A Psychological Formulation of Schizophrenia
Murray Bowen, MD
pp. 17-47
This unpublished paper was among papers from Dr. Bowen’s research project
at NIMH that were donated by the Bowen Family to the Georgetown Family Center
Library in November 1993.
Schizophrenia is a phenomenon that involves every area of human experience from strict physical functioning through areas of social, ethical, moral, and intellectual functioning. It is broader in scope than the conceptual capacity of any one of the numerous interested professional disciplines. The goal of the family study project would be to focus on that part of man which is consistent with man as a biological organism and to differentiate this from culturally determined values. A major effort is to keep the psychological conceptualization adaptive to biological events. The clinical experience also led to a specific formulation about the symbiotic attachment between mother and child as important in the origin of schizophrenia.
COMMENTARY
Morality, Neutrality, and Differentiation of Self
Stephanie J. Ferrera, MSW
pp. 48-61
Morality, neutrality, and differentiation of self are distinct but interrelated human processes. Neutrality arises from our effort to understand what is in nature; this is the hallmark of science and objective thought. Morality arises from our effort to determine and practice what ought to be in human affairs; it involves subjectivity and a bias as to right and wrong. Neutrality cannot replace morality, but it can enlighten and guide moral thought and practice. Both neutrality and morality are inherent in the process of differentiating a self, the individual's development of increasing ability to think on a complex level, to define personal values, and to act responsibly.
Darwin saw the moral sense as uniquely human, but rooted in the social instincts that humans have in common with other animals. Darwin suggested that altruism is the basic moral principle. Bowen's concept of the emotional system adds something to evolutionary theory. The emotional system provides a context for understanding the broad spectrum of moral thought and conduct, and the scale of differentiation sheds light on the ways that individuals and groups vary in their practice of altruism and other moral principles. This writer argues that the concept of differentiation of self is not only an accurate description of what is, but also a trustworthy basis for determining what ought to be. Based on this thinking, she advocates differentiation as a guide to choosing moral principles and working toward a more mature and responsible level of social and moral functioning.
FACULTY CASE CONFERENCE
A Multiproblem Family in a Social Service Agency
Presenter: Roberta B. Holt, DSW
pp. 62-86
This clinical case report is based on a presentation at a Faculty Case Conference in November 1994. Identifying data including the family surname have been altered to ensure confidentiality. This case was presented to summarize emotional processes within a family and stimulate thinking about the ongoing course of the consultation.
The presentation was selected as an example of the applicability of Bowen theory to a poor family with multiple problems. Bowen theory is grounded in biology and applies to all humanity. In spite of its inclusiveness it has been overlooked and underutilized as relevant in thinking about the most intense human problems that come to the attention of public social service agencies.
BOOK REVIEW
Stress, the Aging Brain, and the Mechanisms of Neuron Death
Robert M. Sapolsky
reviewed by Daniel V. Papero, PhD, MSSW
pp. 87-96
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