Handbook of Bowen Family Systems Theory and Research Methods

A Systems Model for Family Research

Mignonette N. Keller, Robert J. Noone, Mignonette N. Keller, Robert J. Noone

• Publisher: Routledge
• Year: 2019
• ISBN:
  9781351103268
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Psychology
• Subtopic: Psychotherapy Counselling
• Index: Psychology

The Handbook of Bowen Family Systems Theory and Research Methods presents innovative approaches on a range of issues inherent in family research and discusses the links between theory, data collection, and data analysis based on Bowen family systems theory.

This multi-authored volume discusses core issues within family systems theory, including anxiety, stress, emotional cutoff, differentiation of self, multigenerational transmission process, and nuclear family emotional process. Chapters also examine related constructs in the research literature such as adaptation, resilience, social support, social networks, and intergenerational family relations. Readers will be able to view theoretical and methodological issues from the perspective of Bowen theory and develop a clearer knowledge of ways to navigate the challenges faced when studying individual, familial, and societal problems.

An essential resource for clinicians and researchers in the social and natural sciences, the Handbook of Bowen Family Systems Theory and Research Methods provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the application of Bowen theory to family practice and family research.

Part I

Foundations of Family Research Introduction

1

The Role of Theory in Family Research

Mignonette N. Keller and C. Margaret Hall

Introduction

In the search for knowledge about human behavior and the human family, Bowen family systems theory and research methods are interdependent and complementary. Both are critical in the collaborative pursuit of science (Jones, 2014). Science is a systematic and logical approach to gaining knowledge and an increased understanding of the predictability of human life through the testing and analysis of observable and measurable facts (Babbie, 2015). The findings and outcomes of family research can contribute significantly to enhanced quality of life for the human family. Within the scientific context, theory is defined as a general principle or body of principles used to explain phenomena. Furthermore, scientific theories provide a framework for predicting outcomes, formulating research questions and hypotheses, and developing research designs for scientific inquiries (Babbie, 2015). The scientific method is the most objective way to obtain new knowledge and expand existing knowledge

In the study of families, the reciprocation between established theoretical concepts and selected research methodologies provides the context for the emergence of new knowledge and the confirmation of existing knowledge regarding family predictions. Thus, research methods and theory are mutually dependent. For example, research methods support the development of family theory, and family theory requires research methods to expand and modify existing theories. Researchers employ the scientific method to collect measureable, empirical evidence to test hypotheses that can be used to support or refute a theory (Babbie, 2015; Frankfort-Nachmias, Nachmias, & DeWaard, 2015). This cyclical process is based on observable and repeatable facts that provide the framework for testing and analyzing data.

In Bowen family systems theory, the family is conceptualized as an emotional unit, implying a paradigm shift in which the family unit and not the individual is the unit of analysis (Bowen, 1978; Kerr & Bowen, 1988; Gilbert, 1992; Noone & Papero, 2015). According to Kerr, the “conceptualization of the family as an emotional unit and its application of systems thinking to address complex interactions in the unit are significant steps toward the development of a science of human behavior” (Kerr, in Butler, 2013b, p. 6). In addition, Kerr further states that Bowen was the first scientist to study entire family units housed on a research ward for extended periods. Such an innovative and progressive research design “gave him a unique, larger system perspective on the forces that govern human behavior” (Kerr, in Butler, 2013b, p. 7).

Moreover, the theoretical construct, emotional system, which is an integral part of Bowen theory contends that family members are connected in a system of mutual interaction and interdependence. The interdependence in a system causes the actions of one to be influential on the behavior of the others (Bowen, 1978; Kerr & Bowen, 1988; Noone & Papero, 2015). When family systems theory guides the research process, all phases of the scientific investigation are conceptualized within the context of this theoretical framework. As previously stated, Bowen family systems theory and research methods are interrelated in their search for knowledge concerning individual and family functioning.

Both the problem-solving tasks of empirical investigations and the growth of Bowen theory are outcomes that emerge from the scientific process. Likewise, an essential goal of family research based on the collaborative interchange between theory and research methods continues to be predictability, the end result of science (Williamson, 2013).

Problem-Solving: Theory and Research Methods

The scientific method is used interchangeably when referring to the problem-solving process, the research method, and the research process (Grinnell & Unrau, 2014). The reciprocity between theory and research methods in family research is directly connected to the problem-solving process. The interrelationship between theory and method is based on objective data and analytic procedures that can be critiqued, verified, and replicated by others. For example, hypotheses are testable predictions based on theories that can be supported, or refuted, by research. Unlike a hypothesis, a theory has been tested and must be supported, or refuted, by research theory (Frankfort-Nachmias, Nachmias, & DeWaard, 2015). The interrelationship between theory and research methods provides the context for the cyclical process in family research.

The problem-solving process follows general guidelines that include four basic phases. The initial, exploratory phase includes observation and measurement or description that reveal patterns of family interaction and the varying degrees of emotional interdependence among family members; the second phase involves the formulation of the research problem; the third phase includes data collection, which suggests the specific theoretical concepts in family systems theory to direct the data collection and data analysis phases of the study; and the fourth phase involves data analysis and explanation. The fourth phase of the research process extends the analytic procedures and explanation that allow the consolidation of the major research findings within the context of science.

The phases of the scientific method considered within the context of Bowen family systems theory can potentially expand the knowledge base and scope of family issues and family problems in new, innovative ways. Also, advancing the understanding and knowledge of patterns of family interaction and family interdependence within the family system can be applied toward the resolution of many individual and family problems. Researchers employing theoretical constructs from Bowen family systems theory for empirical investigations must ensure that the constructs are both reliable and valid: stress, anxiety, differentiation of self, emotional cutoff, nuclear family emotional system, multigenerational transmission, triangles, family projection process, sibling position, and societal regression. The hypothesis and primary research question for the investigation will determine the theoretical constructs and research methods employed in the investigation.

Theoretical constructs within Bowen theory such as fusion, triangles, differentiation of self, family projection process, emotional cutoff, and multigenerational transmission process enable researchers to study emotional interdependence and interactional patterns among family members. This theoretical approach broadens established individual methodological procedures and strategies that have characterized family research for decades. Through the use of chronologies of significant family events, combined with chronologies of problematic family processes, researchers are able to identify significant family interactional patterns. Theoretical concepts within Bowen theory provide the framework for an analysis of family relationships within and across generations. Patterns can be identified in families by identifying chronologies of recurring family events and problematic family processes occurring within individuals and families. As such, researchers are able to identify repeated behavioral patterns in the family system (Bowen, 1978). The identification of these kinds of trends in family interactions lead researchers to theorize and devise methodologies for family research (Bowen, 2008).

First Phase of Research: Initial Observation

In the initial phase of the research process, the theoretical approach provides the framework for conceptualizing each phase of the research process (refer to Figure 1.1).

Figure 1.1 Phases of the Research Process

From a systems perspective, Bowen family systems theory is the guidepost combined with research methods in the scientific process. The central problem to be investigated with Bowen theory needs to be defined and decided during this crucial earliest stage of observational research. For example, the researcher must closely review the family segments that need to be studied, in order to expedite the overall research process. Family facts are consolidated through focus on what the researchers and current family members think are the most significant aspects of these ongoing emotional systems.

The analysis of family data begins and ends with family observations. Bowen’s long-range views of family functioning originated in his habitual observations and extensive note taking about how family members behave. However, regardless of whether patterns of interaction are being studied in the everyday life of families or in more unique, special circumstances, there must be a step backwards to increase objectivity. This allows the researcher to identify behavioral markers that assist more accurate interpretation of whatever is going on in the families being observed. Aware fieldwork becomes more centered in family analyses and leads us to new ways to understand families (Butler, 2013a, 2013b).

Whereas Bowen family systems theory has historically discouraged diagnostic, medical models of family analysis, it has tended to support a “natural, historical” view of how families interact. Therefore, social scientists need to stay alert and make mental and written notes about what is happening. The capacity to stay aware at all times makes researchers more effective family observers, as well as more responsible family investigators. The intense observation refocuses the thinking, which makes the researcher less likely to direct attention to varying unrelated themes and issues in the family system. Researchers can observe families, including their own families, more accurately.

Careful observations of families yield particular ways to define, interpret, and use family data. Consequently, social scientists advance research agendas by using family facts to move from describing to explaining families, especially through scientific procedures, which ultimately consolidate the new knowledge about families. For example, behavioral markers suggest different degrees of functioning that identify patterns in emotional dependencies and in individual functioning (McKnight, 2012). Furthermore, researchers gain knowledge when using multigenerational family diagrams and, at the same time, conduct detailed oral life histories. These data collection tools enable investigators to both describe and explain significant patterns in family relationships in new ways.

Family observations are also strengthened by sufficient primary and secondary family data about the research topics being secured, and by both quantitative and qualitative research methods being used to record the observations. Both micro- and macro-perspectives are expressed in the family data analyses. For example, Bowen’s concept of multigenerational transmission process guides family research, as well as clarifies the formulations of broad frames of reference, such as societal emotional process. These family research applications suggest that families are understood fully through research that allows direct observations to be vital parts of the data, findings, and explanations.

Second Phase of Research: Formulation of Research Question and Hypothesis

The second phase of research begins to develop a preliminary analysis of emotional interdependence by focusing on and formulating or reformulating the central research question (O’Leary, 1987). In order to do this, the systems oriented researcher identifies and locates emotional dependencies, or problematic areas of emotional interdependence, in the total field of recent and past family interactions by considering whatever proved to be problematic or successful for the adequate functioning of these families.

For example, if the purpose of the research study is to identify factors influencing the functioning of elderly family members, details about the emotional intensity of this particular nuclear family emotional system need to be examined, as well as repeated patterns of similar behavior among siblings, parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. During the overall scrutiny of what a particular family emotional system is like, researchers start to assess what it is in this emotional field that needs to be shifted or modified, in order to strengthen and benefit family relationships.

Bowen theory consistently enables researchers to accurately point out similar patterns of emotional dependencies across the immense diversity of families and family interactions (Holt, 2011). For example, Bowen’s eight basic concepts of family functioning demonstrate how similar family issues and similar patterns of family reactivity appear across very different social classes, races, ethnic groups, and levels of education. Furthermore, when locating primary explanatory variables is a concern, emotional reactivity and emotional dependence can be identified more clearly as significant determining factors in many given situations. Stating research problems in terms of family systems theory suggests ways to tackle issues involving emotional dependence whenever observed. In order to use this strategy wisely, however, careful attention must be given to selecting methodologies that reveal how strong emotions tend to run uncontrollably in particularly intense family situations.

Thus, the second phase of research becomes an introduction and transition to the third or beginning explanatory phase of research, which uses specific Bowen family systems theory concepts to express distinctive patterns in family interests that have difficult or negative consequences for families’ whole emotional sys...

Table of contents

• Cover
• Half Title
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Table of Contents
• Notes on Editors
• Notes on Contributors
• Foreword
• Preface
• Acknowledgments
• Introduction
• PART I: Foundations of Family Research Introduction
• PART II: Bowen Theory: A Systems Model for Family Research
• PART III: Mechanisms Influencing Family Functioning: Stress/Anxiety, Differentiation of Self and Emotional Cutoff Stress/Anxiety
• PART IV: Mechanisms Influencing Multigenerational Family Functioning
• PART V: Interdisciplinary Use of Bowen Family Systems Theory
• PART VI: Implications for Future Directions in Family Research
• Appendix A: Cutoff and Self-Functioning in Three Generations of Families and Substance Abusing Teenagers
• Appendix B: Standardized Questions for Annual Interviews
• Appendix C: Multigenerational Family History Assessment Module
• Index