An Overview of Bowen Family Systems Theory

17 pages, 2002

Bowen formally set forth family systems theory in eight concepts. They derive from one fundamental idea- -that the family is an emotional unit. From the emotional fusions of the original family unit, typical patterns of relationship behavior are seen when anxiety is elevated. There is also an individuality force that pushes toward autonomy or differentiation from the group. This monograph is a concise summary definition of each the eight concepts with references for study.