A general systems perspective examines the way components of a system interact with one another to form a whole. Rather than just focusing on each of the separate parts, a systems perspective focuses on the connectedness and the interrelation and interdependence of all the parts. A systems perspective permits one to see how a change in one component of the system affects the other components of the system, which in turns affects the initial component. The application of the systems perspective has particular relevance to the study of the family as families are comprised of individual members who share a history, have some degree of emotional bonding, and develop strategies for meeting the needs of individual members and the family as a group. Family systems theory allows one to understand the organizational complexity of families, as well as the interactive patterns that guide family interactions.
Ponzetti, James J. (2003). Family Systems Theory. In Encyclopedia of marriage and the family (4,642-643). New York: Macmillan Reference USA.
Austin Family Institute uses the Family Systems Theory because we believe it offers a more holistic approach to counseling. We believe that every system of a family, be it marital, parental, or sibling, has an affect on the individual, and it is impossible to separate them.