Theories are not laws, but they do help when narrowing down an explanation for family dynamics. We'll talk about the different theories and how they play a part.
System Theory
This theory encompasses several theories, but all leading to similar assumptions regarding relationships. Specifically for intimate relationships, systems theory analyzes the entire relationship as a whole and all of the parts that make the whole relationship.
These parts of the relationship are dependant upon each other to function together, hence the word "system". Within a system, subsystems often occur as well. Subsystems are the individual relationships built within the family unit. Sometimes the subsystems can be unhealthy, but they can also be healthy.
When one part of the system becomes dysfunctional, it affects the rest of the system. To fix the issues the individual has, therapists take the approach to readjust the whole family system.
Within each system, there is a set of unspoken rules. For example, one of my unspoken rules in my family is that we all knew to never scare each other. No sort of pranks or anything of the sort that would throw off the other sibling was allowed.
Each family has their own set of unspoken rules. Feel free to comment some of yours!
Exchange Theory
What happens in an exchange? You give up a cost as well as get a reward. The goal is to keep the cost you owe to a minimum while keeping the rewards you have very high.
In this case, costs can mean time, money, belongings, or actions. One thing that I believe is a cost, but may not be a cost to my fiancé is his time and emotional energy to listen to me and help boost me up when I have a hard day.
In relationships, if you have much more costs in store than rewards, it's likely that you will discontinue the relationship. Think about it, if you have a romantic partner you've been dating and they continue to drain out your time, money, emotions, etc. while giving none of those things back to you, they gain all the rewards without them putting the effort into a relationship. You would probably be more tempted to finish what you have because you also deserve a balance of costs and rewards given from both partners in a relationship.
Symbolic Interaction Theory
This theory encompasses the concept that interactions help shape people's beliefs. The people involved with the interaction as well as the interaction itself contribute to shaping those beliefs.
Part of what determines a symbolic interaction is the person's definition of the situation. To give a simple example, someone might enjoy painting the scene outside of their window, while others simply don't want to consider doing that to enjoy their time. People have different definitions of what is pleasing and what isn't.
Speaking for myself, I love going through new experiences to gain new meaning. When I go through a new experience, I bring something to the table just by being there, but the experience itself is great as well. The combination of the two can symbolize something to me later.
Conflict Theory
Conflict Theory is the "explanation" (so to speak) that no matter what groups of people interact with each other, there is always some sense of conflict due to the fact that everyone is in need of scarce resources. Because everyone doesn't have access to these resources, not everyone can be satisfied. But groups change and they shift. Due to these changes, resources become available for others making it possible to reach their needs or goals for themselves.
In conclusion, whichever of these theories you decide to have a firm believe in, just make sure to fully understand it and back it up!
Comments