Re: Topic 1 DQ 2

Hello Class,

In the textbook, family systems theory is a theoretical approach stemming from structural-functionalism that examines the role and power dynamics that exist within families (Howe, 2015). It posits that everyone exists within a complex relationship system where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Also described in the textbook are conflict theory, social exchange theory, social constructionism, feminist theory, attachment theory, and bioecological theory. I lean more toward attachment theory, which is a theory developed by John Bowlby. Bowlby stresses the importance of early caregiving relationships for shaping the way people process information as well as affecting their social and emotional adjustments in adulthood.

The reason I lean more toward attachment theory is because of my sister and myself. I was raised in a home with a lot of issues. I was held and loved while my sister, being the middle child, was scolded and blamed for everything that went wrong in the house. I stayed home, in comfortable surroundings while my sister was moved from foster home to foster home from the time she was 4 until she found a permanent one at the age of 12. Because of the difference in the way we were raised, I trust easily while she does not; I think of others before myself where she thinks first of herself and her family before all others; and I am always willing to give a helping hand whereas she has the opposite opinion. This, I think, is the reason attachment theory is best for certain situations.

The reason it is best to have a multitheoretical approach is because one theory does not always explain the reason for certain actions within a family. Conflict theory could also explain the issues between my sister and me just as easily as attachment theory.

Blessed,

Amber Cochrane

Second post

Second Post

Family Systems Theory is defined: “stems from structural-functionalism; examines roles and power dynamics present in families; emphasizes that every individual exists within a complex relationship system; the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.” (Howe, T.R., 2018). In our text we also learn about Conflict Theory, Social Exchange Theory, Social Constructionism, Feminist Theory, Attachment Theory, and the Bioecological Theory. Out of these theories, I would have to say that I lean towards Conflict Theory. The Conflict Theory, in my opinion, is relatable to many families. Conflict does not necessarily have to be a negative thing, often times people learn and grow more through conflict than from being passive or aggressive in a relationship. It is very beneficial to be able to identify all of the theories, not only for our own education, but to be able to determine how a family interacts with one another. Once that determination has been made, one will be able to effectively communicate with the family using the methods that they are most comfortable and familiar with.

Julie E