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Systems Theory in Action
Applications to Individual, Couple, and Family Therapy

"Smith-Acuña illuminates the structural hierarchy, roles and boundaries that give a system structure. The relationship between parts and wholes is both simple and profound, and particularly important in looking at systems structure. These morsels of wisdom are good examples of Smith-Acuña's grace as a systems theory tour guide: one moment she's digging deeper into the nuances among the theories, the next moment she's simplifying without dumbing down, but in a manner which is enormously liberating. We enjoy the fun, full and informed journey with her."
—Frank S. Pittman, III, MD, Author of Turning Points, Private Lies, Man Enough, and Grow Up!

Shelly Smith-Acuña (Author)

9780470475829, Wiley

Paperback / softback, published 9 November 2010

192 pages
22.6 x 15 x 1.3 cm, 0.227 kg

"Smith-Acuña illuminates the structural hierarchy, roles, and boundaries that give a system structure. The relationship between parts and wholes is both simple and profound, and particularly important in looking at systems structure. These morsels of wisdom are good examples of Smith-Acuña's grace as a systems theory tour guide: one moment she's digging deeper into the nuances among the theories, the next moment she's simplifying without dumbing down, but in a manner that is enormously liberating. We enjoy the fun, full, and informed journey with her."
—Frank S. Pittman III, MD

A practical presentation of systems theory as a fundamental model for clinical practice

Valuable for seasoned mental health professionals as well as those in training, Systems Theory in Action presents systems theory—the unifying principles surrounding the organization and functioning of systems—as it applies to individual, couples, and family therapy.

This innovative book explores systems theory as an effective model for general mental health practice. It examines the role systems theory can play, specifically in understanding clients' presenting problems in context, within the various systems and subsystems in which the problems are embedded.

Filled with realistic clinical stories illustrating relevant concepts that tie theory to technique, Systems Theory in Action takes an in-depth look at:

  • Systems theory as a solid guide through the dynamic process of psychotherapy
  • The multilayered value of observing human interactions through a systems view
  • Systemic thinking, its core components, and how it serves to reveal a "big picture" view of clients and their presenting problems

Systems Theory in Action is a unique contribution to the field, translating the technical terminology of general systems thinking into common, everyday language.

Acknowledgments ix

Preface xi

1 Introduction to Systems Thinking 1

2 Context 13

3 Causality 33

4 Communication 49

5 Change 67

6 Structure 85

7 History and Development 103

8 Social and Cultural Narratives 117

9 Applications to Theory, Research, and Organizations 131

References 147

Author Index 153

Subject Index 157

Subject Areas: Psychology [JM]
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