REJECTION
Is this really rejection, or does it just feel like it? Is this really control, or could it be a reaction to rejection?
Just Show Up
“Any successful effort that goes toward improving the frequency and quality of emotional contact
with the extended family, will predictably improve the family’s level of adjustment and reduce
symptoms in the nuclear family.” (Murray Bowen, Family Therapy in Clinical Practice, 537-538)
A New Baby Changes the Individuality/Togetherness Balance in the Family.
One of Murray Bowen’s most significant contributions was his recognition of the universal opposing life forces of togetherness and individuality. Birth and early infancy may be the time these forces operate
more closely to the hypothetical optimum 50-50 balance than at any other point along the lifespan.
The Diagnosis Paradox
In my 20+ years as a practicing family therapist I’ve grown accustomed to clients telling me about their “narcissistic father,” “bipolar mother” or “Asperger’s brother.” It’s a diagnosis paradox.
Life After Caretaking
For the first time in memory, Jill is learning to keep the focus on herself.
Stuck In the Middle With You
Shawna feels stuck between her mother and her younger sister. Mother complains about sister’s rude behavior, lack of motivation, and marijuana use. Sister vents about mother, calling her a “nag” and “controlling.” Shawna feels sorry for her mother and thinks her role is to provide support in an abusive situation. Even so, she tends to listen passively to her sister’s grievances rather than risk setting her off.
