Extended Family Systems Therapy vs. Structural Family Therapy

Attribute	Extended Family Systems Therapy	Structural Family Therapy
Focus	Focuses on the entire family system, including extended family members	Focuses on the organization of the family system
Goals	Enhancing communication and relationships within the extended family	Restructuring dysfunctional family patterns and boundaries
Techniques	Genogram analysis, systemic interventions, family sculpting	Joining, boundary setting, reframing
Therapist Role	Facilitator of systemic change, neutral observer	Active director, enforcer of boundaries
View of Symptoms	Seen as a result of dysfunctional family dynamics	Seen as a result of poor family structure

Introduction

Family therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on improving communication and resolving conflicts within families. Two popular approaches to family therapy are Extended Family Systems Therapy and Structural Family Therapy. While both approaches aim to improve family dynamics, they have distinct differences in their theoretical foundations and techniques.

Extended Family Systems Therapy

Extended Family Systems Therapy, also known as Bowenian therapy, is based on the work of psychiatrist Murray Bowen. This approach views the family as an emotional unit and emphasizes the interconnections between family members. The therapist helps the family identify patterns of behavior and communication that contribute to dysfunction. The goal of Extended Family Systems Therapy is to increase differentiation, or the ability of family members to maintain their individuality while remaining emotionally connected.

• Focuses on the emotional unit of the family
• Emphasizes interconnections between family members
• Identifies patterns of behavior and communication
• Aims to increase differentiation among family members

Structural Family Therapy

Structural Family Therapy, developed by Salvador Minuchin, focuses on the organization of the family system. This approach views the family as a social system with its own structure and boundaries. The therapist helps the family reorganize dysfunctional patterns by adjusting boundaries and hierarchies within the family. Structural Family Therapy aims to create clear roles and boundaries within the family to promote healthier interactions.

• Focuses on the organization of the family system
• Views the family as a social system with its own structure
• Adjusts boundaries and hierarchies within the family
• Promotes clear roles and boundaries for healthier interactions

Key Differences

One key difference between Extended Family Systems Therapy and Structural Family Therapy is their focus on different aspects of the family system. Extended Family Systems Therapy emphasizes emotional connections and patterns of behavior, while Structural Family Therapy focuses on the organization and structure of the family. Another difference is the role of the therapist in each approach. In Extended Family Systems Therapy, the therapist acts as a coach, helping the family members increase their differentiation. In Structural Family Therapy, the therapist takes a more active role in reorganizing the family system.

Similarities

Despite their differences, Extended Family Systems Therapy and Structural Family Therapy share some similarities. Both approaches view the family as a system with interconnected parts that influence each other. They also both aim to improve communication and resolve conflicts within the family. Additionally, both approaches recognize the importance of boundaries and roles within the family system.

Effectiveness

Research has shown that both Extended Family Systems Therapy and Structural Family Therapy can be effective in improving family dynamics and resolving conflicts. However, the effectiveness of each approach may vary depending on the specific needs of the family. Extended Family Systems Therapy may be more beneficial for families struggling with emotional enmeshment and lack of differentiation, while Structural Family Therapy may be more helpful for families with unclear boundaries and roles.

Conclusion

Extended Family Systems Therapy and Structural Family Therapy are two popular approaches to family therapy that have distinct differences in their theoretical foundations and techniques. While Extended Family Systems Therapy focuses on emotional connections and patterns of behavior, Structural Family Therapy emphasizes the organization and structure of the family system. Both approaches aim to improve communication and resolve conflicts within the family, but they may be more effective for different types of family dynamics. Ultimately, the choice between Extended Family Systems Therapy and Structural Family Therapy will depend on the specific needs of the family seeking therapy.