Understanding Family Dynamics & Theories

The week of September 27 through October 3rd we discussed different theories that define human behaviorisms and interactions. We defined four different theories in detail: System theory, Exchange theory, Symbolic Interaction theory, and Conflict theory. The System theory is calling a family an example of "circular causality". Each family member is involved with one another and their actions very directly effect everyone. This theory contains subsystems, roles and rules, and boundaries. Each of these subtopics helps define the importance and validity of the System theory, because it shows how fragile and moldable the ties between family members are. Additionally, we can find systems that encounter this theory in several different environments. Systems can be found in classrooms, sports teams, dorms/ apartments, and much more. The Exchange theory involves the thought process of constantly weighing benefits. The idea that each interaction with someone has a pro and con. People value the exchange theory because it is often a foundation for any feelings of being used or taken advantage of. When someone feels they are on the side of giving and not balanced with someone who is receiving- the "trading" pattern ruins the harmony of that relationship. The Symbolic Interaction theory addresses the commonly asked question, "What does it mean?" Often times we wonder why we feel the way we do or why we develop certain feelings for specific people. This theory states that each reaction we have makes an impression on someone. We viewed an example of the effectiveness of this theory in class by role playing the scene of a counselor with a family of three. The family consisted of a not very connected mother and father and a son with a strong bond to his mother. The counselor (our professor) used another physiologist's method of having the family sit a certain way to begin to create bonds between the parents, and he also had the family demonstrate what they had previously done when the son would encounter an asthma attack. By analyzing the families reactions, he was able to critique them and walk through what they should do in order to keep the situation under control. The small mannerisms of the counselor had the family noticeably more comfortable around each other by the end of the "appointment". The Conflict theory is interesting because it clarifies that two people having different opinions and even conflicts is not necessarily a bad thing. Having differences and being able to work through them can actually bring two or more people closer together. Overall, this weeks lessons helped me to better understand the thought processes of humans and myself and also to better recognize individual's importance in a family system.