How to Coach Yourself and Others Coaching Families | Page 100

may also push the family towards a different equilibrium. This new equilibrium may lead to dysfunction as
the wife may not be able to maintain this overachieving role over a long period of time.
There are eight interlocking concepts in Dr. Bowen's theory:
1) Differentiation of self:

The variance in individuals in their susceptibility to depend on others for acceptance and approval.
2) Triangles:

The smallest stable relationship system. Triangles usually have one side in conflict and two sides in
harmony, contributing to the development of clinical problems.
3) Nuclear family emotional system:

The four relationship patterns that define where problems may develop in a family.
- Marital conflict
- Dysfunction in one spouse
- Impairment of one or more children
- Emotional distance
4) Family projection process:

The transmission of emotional problems from a parent to a child.
5) Multigenerational transmission process:

The transmission of small differences in the levels of differentiation between parents and their children.
6) Emotional cut-off:

The act of reducing or cutting off emotional contact with family as a way of managing unresolved
emotional issues.
7) Sibling position:

The impact of sibling position on development and behaviour.
8) Societal emotional process:

The emotional system governs behaviour on a societal level, promoting both progressive and regressive
periods in a society.

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