Family systems therapy and theory as based on the assumption that a family constitutes a specific system in which interactions are shaped by and informed by the beliefs, values and roles that are adopted or assumed by individual members. The theory also argues that the family is a patient system in which the individual with the presenting problem is not the sole recipient of care. It assumes the family system is dynamic and capable of change.
In Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Will Smith is sent by his mother from the mean streets of Philadelphia to live in the posh home of her sister and brother-in-law, Vivian and Phillip Banks. As such, Will becomes a fish out of water and in one episode laments to his Uncle Phil, in reference to the father who abandoned him, ôHow come he donÆt want me, man?ö The argument advanced and supported here is that Bowenian family therapy, by recognizing and positioning the individual within the large socio-emotional context of the family system offers an excellent framework for ameliorating family tensions and stresses, leading to a return to wellness and a reduction in overall familial dysfunctional behaviors.
Will clearly represents what Bowen (2003, p. 1) describes as a person who feels distant or ôdisconnectedö from their family. Though Will has attempted to differentiate the self from the family and though he perceives himself to be an outsider, neither his aunt nor his uncle agree that this is the case. Consequently, a presenting problem would be the triangulated relationship involving Will, his aunt, and his uncle.
Bowen (2003, p. 1) considers a ôtriangle to be the ôsmallest stable relationship systemö but also notes that they contain a great deal of tension because someone is always uncomfortable in a triangle and pushing for change. At moderate levels of tension, triangles usually have one side in conflict with two sides in harmony. In assessing WillÆs situation, he
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