Understanding Family Process

Basics of Family Systems Theory

Family process or family systems theory is the basic theoretical model underlying most contemporary family therapy. In Understanding Family Process, Carlfred Broderick explains how systems theory gave rise to family systems theory, outlines the basic propositions of family systems, and links it both to other family theory literature and to clinical practice. Among the topics covered are relational space, family boundaries, family stratification, and child socialization. Family meanings and such shared realities as family folklore, stories, myths, and memorabilia are discussed; and family rituals such as traditions, rites of passage, and celebrations are explored. Perfectly suited for use in courses on family systems and family theory, and written in a lively and highly readable fashion, Understanding Family Process makes a sound contribution to the growing body of knowledge about how families function. Understanding Family Process is essential reading for students in family therapy and family theory, and for professionals and researchers in family studies, counseling, social work, psychology, and sociology. "This book is one of practical theory and well worth reading by the serious student of family process. More especially the book is must reading for family therapists whom Broderick so rightly criticizes as doing. . . all they can in their power to make families more cybernetic, less reflexive, and less opportunistic. . . by . . . trying to get families to operate as they believe a good family system should operate." --Journal of Family Psychotherapy "My overall reaction to this book is enthusiastic support. It is particularly useful for undergraduate seniors and beginning master's students because it pulls together a lot of concepts under the umbrella of family systems theory. . . . I know of no other text that presents a unified theoretical approach. . . . One of the strengths of Broderick's text, in my view, is that it looks at normal processes within families. Many other texts offer only a clinical view." --Carmen Knudson-Martin, Montana State University "A major strength is the fact that it straddles the 'theory/research' and 'applied' domains of the family field. In addition, it is well written, well researched, and well referenced, so that, even those who might disagree with its underlying premises will benefit from reading (and using) it." --Jetse Sprey, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio "In my opinion, Understanding Family Process will provide the first comprehensive treatment of the subject available to undergraduates. . . . The writing style is clear and maintains the readers' interest. I was astounded at how readable this [book] is. The author keeps from getting mired in detail and continually keeps the reader focused on the larger picture. A second major strength is the breadth and scope of the book. A third major strength is that the author unites empirical research, theory, and therapeutic insight. In several places he successfully argues how contradictions between these three might be solved." --James M. White, University of British Columbia "This is a thorough discussion of the theoretical base of family systems theory which is comprehensive enough to embrace the most contemporary directions in the field. It successfully moves between the domains of theory, research, and application." -The Prevention Report