Structural Family Therapy is a therapeutic modality that focuses on the analysis of the dynamics of family relationships to identify dysfunctional patterns and promote healthy changes. This form of therapy has its roots in systemic theory and renowned therapeutic approaches, such as the structural approach to family therapy developed by Salvador Minuchin. Structural Family Therapy is based on the premise that an individual's psychological problems cannot be separated from their family and social environment, and therefore seeks to address the interactions and power structures within the family to foster greater cohesion and functioning. healthy.
Characteristics of Structural Family Therapy
Structural Family Therapy has several distinctive characteristics that differentiate it from other forms of therapy. Some of the key features of this therapeutic approach are highlighted below:
1. Focus on family structure
One of the main characteristics of Structural Family Therapy is its attention to family structure. This involves examining how roles, norms, boundaries, and hierarchies are distributed within the family, and how these elements impact family dynamics. The structural therapist seeks to identify how family relationships are organized and how this structure can contribute to existing problems.
2. Focus on interaction patterns
In addition to family structure, Structural Therapy focuses on interaction patterns between family members. These patterns include communication, conflicts, alliances, coalitions, power imbalances, and triangulations, among others. The structural therapist observes how family members relate to each other and how these interactions influence the way family problems develop.
3. Directive and structural interventions
In Structural Family Therapy, the therapist assumes an active and directive role in the therapeutic sessions. Through clear and specific interventions, the therapist guides the family to identify and modify dysfunctional patterns in family structure and interactions. These interventions may include reorganizing roles, establishing clear boundaries, challenging dysfunctional assumptions, and promoting effective communication.
4. Viewing the family as a system
Structural Family Therapy is based on the idea that the family functions as an interconnected system in which each member and the family as a whole are influenced by the actions and reactions of others. This systemic perspective implies that the individual problems of a family member cannot be addressed in isolation, as they are intrinsically linked to the overall family dynamic.
How Structural Family Therapy Works
The therapeutic process in Structural Family Therapy follows a structured and systematic approach to addressing family problems. Below is a general description of how this therapeutic modality works:
1. Evaluation of family structure and dynamics
In the initial stages of therapy, the therapist conducts a detailed evaluation of the family structure and the dynamics of interaction between its members. The aim is to identify the roles, implicit rules, coalitions, alliances and predominant communication in the family. This assessment provides the therapist with crucial information to understand family problems and design effective interventions.
2. Establishing Therapeutic Goals
Once the family structure and dynamics have been assessed, the therapist and family collaborate to establish clear and specific therapeutic goals. These goals may be related to improving communication, establishing healthy boundaries, resolving conflict, or strengthening family cohesion. It is essential that the goals are realistic and agreed upon by all family members.
3. Therapeutic Interventions
During therapeutic sessions, the therapist implements directive and structural interventions to address dysfunctional patterns identified in the assessment. These interventions may include reframing, assigning family tasks, role-playing, exploring family narratives, and promoting empathy and mutual understanding. The therapist guides the family in exploring new ways of interacting that promote family health and well-being.
4. Monitoring and evaluating progress
Throughout the therapeutic process, the therapist closely monitors the family's progress toward their therapeutic goals. Periodic evaluations are performed to review progress, identify obstacles, and adjust therapeutic strategies as necessary. Follow-up is essential to ensure that therapy progresses effectively and that the desired changes in the family are achieved.
5. Integration of new relational models
Structural Family Therapy also focuses on the promotion of new relational models among family members. This involves cultivating autonomy, responsibility, open communication, cooperative problem solving, and mutual support. The therapist encourages the family to practice and consolidate these new relational models inside and outside of therapeutic sessions to strengthen healthy family dynamics in the long term.
Conclusion
In summary, the Structural Family Therapy is an effective therapeutic modality for addressing family problems by focusing on the structure and dynamics of family relationships. By employing directive and structural interventions, this therapeutic approach seeks to modify dysfunctional patterns and promote greater cohesion and healthy functioning in the family. By understanding and working with the family as an interconnected system, Structural Family Therapy has the potential to generate significant and sustainable changes that improve the quality of life for all family members.