PROBLEM MAINTENANCE IN FAMILY SYSTEMS: AN INTEGRATIVE MODEL

Cybernetic theory, social learning theory and psychodynamic theory often have been put forth as competing models of the maintenance of family problems. It is argued here that the relative absence in the field of attempts to integrate these perspectives has restricted severely the development of family assessment and therapy. After highlighting the essential features of these three models, an integrative model of family problem maintenance is proposed, and the model's applicability is demonstrated in an illustrative discussion of three major types of clinical problems: symptomatic spouse, symptomatic child, and conflictual couple. Implications of the model for clinical practice are also discussed.