Discuss the aspect of power in relation to structural family therapy
Structural family therapy was founded by Salvador Minuchin and has guided families in family therapy from the time it was instituted in the 1960s. It suggested that people in a family are capable of solving challenges or problems they come across because they are competent based on existing humanistic traditions. Furthermore, Salvador found out that power is correspondingly and appropriately distributed within individuals and subsystems in a family; hence, making some members depend on others more. Additionally, power should stabilize the family system to ensure there is a balance that satisfies everyone. Structural therapists should focus on altering family hierarchy and boundaries through modification of interactions by redistributing power within the family system and subsystem. It is essential to join influential family members because they make decisions most of the time; however, this should not be the case because in a family there should be consultation, respect for different family cultures by therapist, and fairness but not a dictatorship.
Discuss the issues regarding the distribution of power
Power distribution is vital in minimizing conflicts and confrontations by ensuring there is a balance is every decision made by a group or team that will be affected by the outcomes of the decision. Families that concentrate power on one person are not healthy because it will lead to dictatorship and one-member dominating others leading to constant disputes and conflicts. Moreover, the distribution of power is appropriate in ensuring the right size or numbers is achieved, which should neither be too small or big to achieve an optimal decision without vested or conflict of interest. Additionally, it motivates the group to make hard and conclusive decisions at an appropriate level in the family or organization that satisfies everyone. Delegating decisions without proper guidelines can lead to the risk of undue influence, which can escalate to conflicts. Distribution of power should promote democracy and should not increase the risk of indifference with ill motives but should be continuously refined. Families should distribute power is a fair and transparent manner to ensure every member of the family is satisfied and feel part of it where responsibilities can be shared and respect for all.
Define and differentiate the following concepts: coalitions, alignments, and triangulation
Alignment refers to a situation where two or more people share mutual benefits and team up for the same purpose. It is a special bond in a family set up between the members; for example, both parents (father and mother) work together in unity to provide a conducive, secure, and healthy life to their children. Coalitions refer to the alliances of a few family members to counter other family members. In most cases, it brings out negativity; however, it can be positive where health experience competition is experienced for family betterment. If negatively applied and not checked, it can lead to scapegoating, conflicts, confrontations, and disunity in the family that escalate to family breaking up.
On the other hand, triangulation is a concept where a member of a two or more-member system who is not in good terms or against one another; tries to offer a solution to a conflict by involving a third party or citing with one party. In other words, a third party is involved in a dispute between two systems in the same family, where the third party leans on one side without providing a tangible solution. For example, if parents are fighting, one of them either the father or the mother will try, incite, and win the children by portraying the partner as the cause and source of the conflict in the family.
Discuss the elements that must present if parents want to provide a stable system for their families
A stable system in families is vital, and parents should strive to ensure their children are physically and healthy safe by boosting their children’s self-esteem. Additionally, to provide a stable system, parents should set rules, limits, and guidelines that enhance discipline among the children, and this can happen by creating adequate time with their families. Moreover, being good role models, prioritize effective communication, and willing to adjust your parenting style without compromising the family values appropriately. Furthermore, parents should build emotional, cognitive, and behavioral competence of their family members, especially the kids, to enhance their overall mental and emotional health. It will ensure that they have the ability and capability to cope with stressful and challenging situations that they can face. Besides, it will ensure the family overcomes fear, accept disappointments, and frustrations; hence, ensuring that there is a stable system in their families.