A theoretical frame of reference for family systems therapy

T. Blom*, L. van Dijk

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The starting point for this paper is that family therapy lacks a theoretical frame of reference of its own; thus a stepwise search for such a frame of reference is described. First, social systems are defined as communication systems. Second, it is shown in what way a family can be seen as a social system. With the help of the theory of social systems of the sociologist Luhmann, a theoretical frame of reference for systems therapy is drafted. Finally, we hint at the implications such a theoretical framework could have for clinical practice.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)195-216
Number of pages22
JournalJournal of Family Therapy
Volume2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 1999

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