Conceptualization of the Family's Situation Using System Theory - Case Study Example

Social Work (Student Name) (University Name) (Date) Introduction The case in question revolves around the Walton’s family of whom I am the family therapist. Paul and Mary are the heads of the home but are on verge of a divorce. Their first born son John has developed a habit stealing things from his mother and classmates while his brother Mark has been getting in trouble in class for indiscipline. Paul and Mary have neglected the emotional needs of their children. Paul is an absentee father with Mary effectively shouldering all responsibilities. He is socially rigid, a workaholic and has Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder while Mary is emotionally distant from the children. Paul has resorted to dealing with his problem by finding comfort in guns, motorcycles and work. Both parents do not discipline their children and have shirked this important responsibility to the children maternal grandparents who pamper them instead. In addition, there is an abject lack of communication amongst all family members. In essence, the Walton family is a family on the brink of a breakdown and without any intervention, the total disintegration is inevitable. To prevent this, I shall use Cognitive Theory and Family System Theory during my therapy sessions with them. Conceptualization of the family’s situation using system theory For the Walton’s case, I would use the general system theory and cognitive therapy as a way of restructuring the family. The general family system theory is a metatheory capable of describing the nature of the relationship between the family members (Heywood, 2001). On the other hand, Cognitive theory according to Cunningham (1995) is “nested” within the family system theory and seeks to make sense of human behavior by obtaining an understanding of the thought processes that take place inside the human brain. My decision to use family system theory and cognitive theory comes after a close assessment of the nature of the family in question. The relationship between cognitive theory and family system theory can be conceptualized in such a way that there is respect and clarity in the nature of a relationship, including a capability to recognize the differences and similarities between these theories. Having conceptualized the family situation, as a therapist I come to a conclusion that the problem in Walton’s Family lies in the parents since Paul and Mary are not bringing up their children together with Paul’s absenteeism. If they had taken their roles in the family seriously, their problems would not have occurred. Cognitive theory Cognitive Behavioral therapy takes a psychotherapeutic advance, which is often referred to as talking therapy. According to Arthur (2006) this type of therapy aims at solving problems which concern behaviors, cognitions and dysfunctional emotions through a systematic and goal-oriented procedure as has been expounded further upon in Chapter 8 of Cognitive Behavioral therapy. In reference to my case study, I will consider using systematic desensitization as one of the treatments for Walton’s family. John has a habit stealing things and his brother has a disruptive behavior in class. Therefore, systematic desensitization will be the best treatment for both of them, since it is a treatment under Cognitive behavioral theory that is used for phobias therapeutic condition as Chapter 8 of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy notes. I will expose these individuals to the anxiety provoking stimulus in steps. At each step, John and Billy will practice relaxation and other responses that will counteract the anxiety response. After this, I will take the individuals to a higher hierarchy when they have deconditioned the anxiety step. Origins of system theory System theory can be referred to as the study of systems in general with the goal of elucidating principles of other theories (Cunningham, 1995). In the Walton’s case, I will use system theory as a method of self correcting through feedback from the family members. Self-regulating and physiological systems are found in nature, in the process of learning. Therefore, as their family therapist, I expect the family to respond to the therapy because within their bodies there exists the Self-regulating system that will help them in the learning process (Chapter 2, General System Theory). Having assessed and conceptualized the problem of Walton’s family using system theory, I then extract information from each member of the family. It is my duty as a family therapist to gather information from every member of the family. Therefore, having one on one discussion with each member of the family will help me determine the root of individual’s problem. By assessing both parents and the children, some of the issues that I discover from the children, are negligence from parents and it was immediately evident to me that Paul and Mary do not take care of the emotional needs of their children, satisfied with only providing for them materially despite the fact that each child needs love and care. They should have been concerned with their children’s behavior before problems like this occurred. Personal Practice Model in working with families/Structural theory By practice, I am a family therapist whereby I help families and couples to resolve domestic problems. I help them save their marriages when in disputes and on the brink of divorce, counseling them and oftentimes assisting them to undergo therapy. My decision to use structural theory comes from my 9 years experience as a family therapist and having used it in solving previous cases; I am convinced that using the same theory in Walton’s case will solve their issues. Additionally, as a social worker, my desire is to help improve individual’s lives, where I do this by assisting them to solve and cope with their issues by using structural theory which involves helping those with certain social problems, in this case Paul’s social rigidity, life-threatening diseases, disabilities among others. It also helps those families which have serious domestic problems, which can also involve spouse or child abuse. The use of structural theory therapy is mainly to help families nurture their development and change, since it often tends to outlook change that comes in terms of the systems that involves family interactions as well as emphasizes on relationships, clearly based on the family which is a crucial factor in their psychological health. It also helps me as the therapist to pay attention to the process of restructuring the family. I believe structural theory can help save marriages, torn families and help children change to better individuals since whenever I involve the families, it’s easy to accomplish my set objectives what I want because during the therapy there is direct involvement of all the affected members or sometimes all the family members. Using the structural theory also helps me in addressing specific Walton’s Family problems in a shorter frame than other modalities. Additionally, it seeks to correct their problems utilizing their issues in new and imaginative methods and this is invaluable to me as their family therapist as it helps me come up with specific solutions as structural theory dictates. My expertise as a family therapist also comes in handy as I influence family conversations in such a way that they are characterized by first- hand knowledge, support of the wider organization and strength. Therefore, using structural theory as a family therapist is an efficient method of solving family problems because it focuses on individual dilemmas. Child development By definition, child development refers to psychological, emotional and biological changes that occur in individuals between birth and adolescence as a person progresses from dependency to independency. These developmental changes may be influenced strongly by events and genetic factors during the child development (Carr, Chapter 8). For example, in John’s case, his behavior can be said to be influenced by learning and environmental factors, but commonly an interaction of the two. Additionally, it may also occur as a result of his ability to learn from the environment as well as human nature. Children have a tendency of adapting from their surroundings, and therefore, John may have been influenced into theft by his friends or movies and decided to try. This trial then became a habit, which now became a behavioral problem. However, there are various issues that are experienced by teenagers, children and families from diverse background in a broad range of contexts (GA5). Eriksson (2005) asserts that there is a great increase in diversity of children who come from both linguistically and culturally backgrounds. This becomes troublesome in schools and the environment at large. However, some of the issues that young people, children and families experience from diverse background are, for example if a child comes from a previous marriage of either the spouse, a child can be affected greatly if the mother or father withdraws his or her attention from him/her. This is because the child feels out of place from the new found home and perhaps may not be treated well (Fagan and Moghadam, 1994). For this case study, it is clear that Paul and Mary have failed in their role as the children’s guardian. To make matters worse, they have been unable to resolve their marital issues and opted for divorce, failing to place their children’s welfare and discipline as first priority. For example, whenever John did a mistake or got into trouble they would send him to live with his maternal grandparents and enjoy being pampered by them. This was the first mistake they did, instead of addressing the root causes head- on. Heyman (2008) explains that parents should let their children face up to the consequences of their own actions whenever they make a mistake. Therefore, Paul and Mary should not have decided to cover up for John whenever he got into trouble. John’s behavioral problem can totally destabilize his life because if he continues with this habit, he will grow up to become an expert thief in his life. At eleven years of age, he has already begun stealing money and jewellery from his mothers and friends. Leighnton and Dogra (2009) explain that at this age a child should only be concerned with reading, playing and eating. Therefore, in this case, John’s mental preoccupation is not that of a child of his age bracket. Planning and assessment Using the cognitive behavioral therapy and family system theory will assist me in examining the context within which the family live. This context will help me shape and give meaning to the couple as an entity, instead of using individual psychology which only focuses on the mind as the only source of illness. The Family Therapy Theory will help me as Walton’s family therapist to focus on their family system as their source of problematic behavior (Carr, Chapter 8). The distinction with this theory is that includes the assessment of all the family members, their unique attributes and the relationships between them, not just individuals. Therefore, having been able to evaluate the relationship amongst them, it will help me deal with Paul and Mary to understand why they are on the brink of divorce. In that regard, communication is very important in the behavioral treatment for family problems and couples and the Walton’s family is characterized by poor communication. Dysfunctional behaviors are acquired and can be replaced with more constructive behavior through learning new processes therefore, through instilling new communication patterns in, I will be able to determine the cause of their behaviors through using the Cognitive behavioral Therapy. In John’s case, I will approach from an angle in which he will not feel that I am punishing him or interfering with his life. As much as possible I will try use wisdom to ensure that he opens up to me on the reasons behind his foray into theft. Lewis and Volkmar (2007) explain that as a social worker, the use harsh words when dealing with a patient is detrimental and one should talk in a friendly manner so that the patient can open up as well as relax. As a family therapist, I will keep a diary of the associated and significant feelings and events, assumptions, beliefs, testing and questioning, that are helpful in finding a cure to Walton’s family. Some of the techniques that are also included are distraction, mindfulness, and patient relaxation. Cognitive behavioral therapy will help cure Paul’s disorder, Schizophrenia, and also bipolar disorder along with other medication in combination of family therapy. This is, however, not an overnight process and the Walton’s family will need to undergo this process to emerge from their problems effectively as it takes long for a patient to replace cognitive-dysfunctional behavioral- related habit with accepted behavior (Structural Family, Chapter 3). The therapy itself will thus be structured, focusing on the specific problem whereby I shall expect the family to be open so that I may develop a good strategy of guidance and counseling (Geldard and Kathryn 2009). Despite the expected lengthy time frame, I expect the use of Cognitive behavioral and family system theory to bring out positive results and save Paul and Mary’s marriage. This is because by using it to treat Paul depressive disorder, I will be helping him and Mary through their marital woes, discover the reason behind Mary’s unusual behavior and then dissect the root of the children’s misbehavior (Chapter 8, Cognitive Behavioral therapy). For the children, the theories will be beneficial as it is said to treat anxiety disorders and trauma, among others. However, in a bit to ensure that the process is not too protracted, I also plan to use some short-term sessions on John and his brother which will be effective on an individual level (American College Personnel Association, 1996). Feedback and Circular causality Feedback from the family is an important benefit of the two theories and I expect either positive or negative feedback from the family because, without feedback I will not be able to evaluate their response to the therapy. In that regard, I shall start by analyzing their thoughts, emotions and cognitions and how they affect each other. This will help me as the therapist to track down their progress and through our working together; we will be able to arrive at a mutual understanding on what needs to be corrected. By so doing I will be helping the children and their parents discover that the power in choosing positive behavioral patterns and thoughts actually lies within them. Schwarts (1999) explains that during this treatment, an effective therapist should provide patients with assignments. The treatment should also be goal-oriented, assisting them to solve their everyday problems since it is a step by step goal achieving method. Paul’s behavior ties to a mental disorder and therefore, CBT will help cure his condition (Linsley, 2006). Therefore, I will allocate a specific session for him to try assist him overcome his condition. In addition, Cognitive Therapy and Family Therapy helps families and children from diverse backgrounds overcome their problems and difficulties. This is because it changes their behavior as well as emotional and dysfunctional thinking. In terms of feedback and circular causality, as a family therapist, I am aware that the malfunction of one member of the family is not caused by an intrapsychic breakdown but the failure of the family system to function properly. The family members influence each other’s action thus during the course of the therapy I will be helping the Walton’s family develop new beliefs as well as positive thinking. My aim shall be to make them understand that the problem they are going through are self confessed problems brought by them but working as a unit will solve the issues. In John’s case, he has chosen to become a thief but since his problems have been discovered, it can also be solved easily through his cooperation. John and his parents need to be flexible enough to admit they have a problem and in the process, they will start breaking free from their negative thoughts (Geldard and Kathryn, 2009). Rules and boundaries in the family system Family system rules and boundaries help maintain a family stability. According to Cunningham (1995), family rules are general agreements in families that help the members of the family to interact with each other cohesively. As their family therapist I will insist to the Walton’s family to initiate and implement family rules and boundaries that will help them to bond with each other and avoid conflicts. Paul and Mary can, for instance, develop rules such as the use of polite words during communication, courtesy, and set aside time to spend with each other during the weekends. This will help Paul with his problem of finding comfort in guns and motorcycles. He will also stop working heavily and look forward of going home to spend time with his family. Rules and boundaries for their children in relation to the forms of discipline will also be developed. For example, a penalty for theft such as being grounded will be necessary for John so that he learns to be responsible and face the consequences of his actions instead of letting him run away from them. Conclusion In summary, as a family therapist for the Walton’s family, a family characterized by theft in one child and a looming divorce in the works, I will use the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family System Theory to resolve the impending family breakdown. I will emphasize on the combination of both therapies as It will help me as a therapist identify the exact symptoms in the family as well as the cause of their problems, obtain feedback, analyze the entire family as a unit as opposed to just individuals and develop strategies for the poor communication. Together with the family, I will then come up with rules and boundaries that will help in getting them back together as both Cognitive and Family System Therapy recommends. This shall be crucial for the betterment of the family not just in curtailing their current problems but also assist in helping them in the future to prevent a sad breakdown of their family unit. References Arthur, R. (2006). Family life and youth offending: Home is where the hurt is. New York: Francis & Taylor. American College Personnel Association. (1996). The Journal of college student personnel, Volume 7. Michigan: University of Michigan. Abraham, Amit. (2010). Taming the Little Devils Within. New York: Unicorm Books Carr Chapter 8. Formulating Problems and Exceptions Carr Chapter 9. Interventions for Behavior, Beliefs and Contexts Cunningham, H. (1995). Children and Childhood in Western Society since 1500. London and New York: Longman. Epstein. N. Cognitive-behavioral Therapies for Couples and Families. Chapter 8 Eriksson, M. (2005). Tackling Men’s Violence in families: Nordic issues and dilemmas. New York: The Policy Press. Fagan, J and Moghadam, H. (1994). Attention deficit disorder: a concise source of information For parents and teachers. Pennsylvania: Detselig Enterprises Friedkin, N. (1998). A Structural theory of social influence: Structural analysis in the social sciences. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Geldard, D and Kathryn, G. (2009). Relationship counseling for children, Young People and Families. New Jersey: Sage Publications Heyman, J. (2008). Basic structural theory. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press Heywood, C. (2001). A History of Childhood: Children and Childhood in the West from Medieval to Modern Times. Cambridge, UK: Polity Press. Hecker.L, Mims, G & Boughner, S. General Systems Theory, Cybernetics, and Family Therapy. Chapter 2 Leighnton, S and Dogra, N. (2009). Nursing in Child and Adolescent Mental Health. New York: McGraw-Hill International Lewis, A and Volkmar, F. (2007). Lewis’s child and adolescent psychiatry: a comprehensive textbook. New Jersey: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Linsley, P. (2006). Violence and aggression in the workplace: a practical guide for all Healthcare staff. New Jersey: Radcliffe Schwarts, E. (1999). New Directions in mental health, Volume 2. New York: Grune & Stratton. Publishing Wetchler. J, Structural family Therapy. Chapter 3 Annexure A The Walton’s (Paul and Mary) are the parents of an 11 year old boy who has a behavioral problem. Among his misdeeds, John steals his mothers and friend’s jewellery and money; finds it hard to follow rules at home; and does what he wants to. His younger brother also has a behavioral problem, despite his above average school work and the teacher complains to his mother of his disruptive behavior and is inability to sit in class and concentrate. The Walton’s family is a nuclear family but includes a four year old boy from Mary’s previous marriage, Billy. Billy’s biological father is a non entity is his life and he refers to Paul as his father. Paul works hard but his level of social adaptation is questionable as well as marginal. His condition is referred to as Schizoid, which is characterized by rigidity, ambivalence and paranoia. He has a few friends and prefers to keep himself busy with guns and motorcycles. John has been brought up by his grandparents from his mother’s side, because whenever he got into trouble and as his treatment progressed he was sent to his maternal grandparents. Assuming this case was allocated to me as the family therapist and after attending to 3-4 sessions of supervision and therapy not going on well, Mary and Paul was heading towards a divorce. Paul was even moving out of his home, while John’s behavior has been abated. However, Mary’s father is supportive of his son-in law Paul, who is not seen to be judgmental of his behavior and becoming upset with his daughter. He also says that Mary did not deserve a good treatment of her behavior which even stresses her step mother who is about to undergo surgery. Annexure B Echo Map of Walton’s Family KEY P- PAUL J- JOHN M1- MARY M2- MARK G- GRANPARENTS An Eco Map describing the nature of the relationship of Walton’s Family which is quite disjointed. I will be helping Paul and Mary to save their marriage in terms of instilling new processes and behaviors in them and their children through communication to heal this disjointedness. Read More