The Systems Theory

"The whole is greater than the sum of its parts"

Family is a hard subject to describe, but one way we have tried is through the systems theory. Basically a family is a group of interrelated and differentiated individuals. The individuals effect each other and work together to maintain stability. One way a family system works to regulate itself is through what is known as the feedback loop. The formal definition of feedback loop is "a circular mechanism that introduces information about a systems output back to its input in order to alter, correct and govern the systems functioning and viability. In simple terms, when there is a probably the system, or family, will work to fix it and maintain stability.

Homeostasis is the automatic tendency to maintain balance or equilibrium and a family does this through mechanisms that activate rules that define family relationships and interactions. These mechanisms include boundaries, family rules and meta rules. A boundary is an invisible line that separates and individual, a subsystem, or system from outside surroundings. Family rules govern the system and follows organized established patterns based on the family structure. They are generally established by interaction and enable each person to learn what is permitted or expected in family transactions. Meta rules are basically rules about the rules. They are usually unstated and allow for interpretation.

Subsystems are individual systems within a system, for example executive (usually the parents) or a sibling subsystem. They help the system function through assigned roles and responsibilities.

Generally there are two types of systems, open or closed. An open system has continuous flow of information in and out of the system. A closed system has strict boundaries, is not easily crossed and interaction with the outside is limited and controlled. A family, however, can not be COMPLETELY open or closed. Families need a balance.

The systems theory is only one of the theories that has tried to explain family dynamics, but it is important to recognize the influence of the system. You can't underestimate the power of the system on the individual and it is an interesting way to look at families. I know that there are all kinds of families, but most have a system and follow the basic pattern that the systems theory establishes.