This paper focuses on the conceptual model of an academic course inspired by complexity theory. In the proposed conceptual model, the aim of teaching is to form a learning organization: a knowledge community with emergent properties that cannot be reduced to any linear combination of the properties of its parts. In this approach, the learning of…

This article reflects on the conceptualization and treatment strategies associated with a systems perspective of the somatic couple. It is suggested that resistance to change, nurturance of the somatic patient by his or her partner, and rigid role taking serve to promote relationship stability and individual pseudopower at the cost of patient…

This article introduces the intersystem model of psychotherapy and discusses its utility as a truly integrative and comprehensive approach. The foundation of this conceptually complex approach comes from dialectic metatheory; hence, its derivation requires an understanding of both foundational and integrational constructs. The article provides a…

Uses a case study to show how a therapist can help a family by breaking their loops of preferential behaviors. Describes a systemic approach that helps prevent families from using the same feedback loops that lead to dead-ends in their behavior. (JAC)

Emphasizes the value of a systemic approach, when encountering life-threatening behavior in a clinical practice. Presents two case studies that employed therapeutic methods derived from systemic therapy. Illustrates the importance of the therapist's ability to speak the client's language in formulating an intervention for reducing the likelihood…

Discusses symptom production and symptom maintenance in terms of psychodynamic and system-oriented family therapy approaches. The conceptual and operational hypotheses of both approaches stem from different logics. Describes their different sets of data, lines of inquiry and treatment strategies. (Author/JAC)

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,…