Probate coincides with changes in the relational system of a family and often affects the distribution of status and power among kin. The systems approach focuses on the interrelations among beneficiaries and, in some cases, disinherited members of the family. (Author)

Describes the Family Environment Scale (FES). Discussion of family member's real and ideal family environment identifies areas of agreement and disagreement about actual and desired aspects of family functioning. This procedure can focus each therapy session on specific interpersonal issues and encourage family members to take an active part.…

Introduces the concept of extreme interpersonal sensitivity and reviews literature relating to it. The concept is only indirectly alluded to by family theorists. Extreme interpersonal sensitivity seems to be characteristic of a lack of individuation in the family system. Clinical examples are offered to clarify this concept. (Author/JAC)

The impact of breast cancer and mastectomy on women and their families is examined from a family systems orientation. Sexual counseling and family therapy are advocated to reduce the psychological and sexual trauma of mastectomy and enhance family adjustment. Clinical case studies provide support for therapeutic intervention. (Author)

Research and clinical support for the connections between alcohol abuse and the family milieu have generated increased interest in family treatment approaches to alcoholism. In assessing the "alcoholic family," the clinician must consider numerous aspects of family interaction which have been linked to abuse and to treatment outcomes.…

The 22 articles of this special issue focus on families with mentally, physically or emotionally disabled family members and discuss the importance of viewing the family as a system. Research studies and literature reviews report on family reaction, stress variables and coping techniques, placement decisions, and policy recommendations. (JAC)

Presents a model for understanding relationships between family functioning and children's school disorders. Five transactional patterns are identified as supporting a school disturbance: enmeshment, overprotectiveness, rigidity, lack of conflict resolution, and child intrusion in marital conflict. Treatment suggestions are provided, with emphasis…

Proposes that therapeutic intervention doesn't have the power to create durable, predetermined changes in human systems. Suggests the family's basic rules prohibit it from changing. Discusses a preferable goal of validating the family's present functioning through an understanding of different levels of its self-perception (phenomenological model,…

While referrals and collaboration outside the confines of the school are often necessary, the literature offers school counselors no guidance in the provision of family counseling services. This book emphasizes school counselors, themselves, working with families in the schools. A viable and dynamic theory of school counseling which is unique in…