r own child" (Prather, 1995, p. 316). Pearsall (1990) contends that the parental bond is the most enduring cultural and institutional bond for guiding the family (p. 115).
Intervention techniques in family systems theory are geared toward two goals. The first is reduction of anxiety in the family and relief from symptoms of dysfunction. The second goal is increased self-differentiation among nuclear family members.
Although family systems theory involves the entire family unit, Bowen generally confined his therapy sessions to the two most significant adults in the family relationship, usually the parents, considered the key to the family's emotional system.
In family systems therapy, the therapist presents himself or herself as a researcher or coach. Throughout the sessions, the therapist must maintain a ba
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