Elevator Systems - Bowen Family Systems Theory

S3 Ep4 Adolescence with Avrum Nadigel

Jul 29, 2025

Join marriage and family therapist Avrum Nadigel as he shares insights from his 25 years of experience. He discusses how family dynamics shape adolescent behavior and emphasizes the importance of differentiating one's identity while balancing family expectations. By referencing classics like 'The Breakfast Club,' Avrum illustrates the quest for individuality amidst parental support and societal pressures. Listeners gain practical advice for fostering healthy relationships and navigating the challenges of the teenage years.

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ANECDOTE

Therapy Success From Parents

Avrum Nadigel noticed therapy with teens showed no symptom change when focused solely on the teen.
Switching focus to the parents reduced teen symptoms dramatically, highlighting family dynamics' role.

INSIGHT

Adolescence and Differentiation

Adolescence is crucial for differentiation, where teens explore identity amid family influence.
The question "Who am I?" succinctly captures the adolescent developmental challenge.

INSIGHT

Balancing Autonomy and Connection

Adolescents naturally seek autonomy, balancing individuation with family connections.
Parents' emotional stability creates space for healthy adolescent exploration and identity formation.

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Welcome to Elevator Systems! In this episode we delve into the complexities of adolescence through the lens of Bowen family systems theory. Join hosts Dixie Vandersluys and Katie White with guest Avrum Nadigel as they explore how understanding family dynamics can illuminate the challenges and opportunities of the teenage years.

Avrum Nadigel has been a marriage and family therapist for 25 years and has completed postgraduate training in Bowen family systems theory. He is the author of three book: “Learning to Commit”, “It Takes More than Love” and “Where Would you Like to Start: A Master Therapist on Beginning Psychotherapy with Families”. Avrum has co-produced two podcasts: “Pop Parenting” and “The Love Examined Playlist”.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Bowen family systems theory’s unique perspective on adolescence: thinking about a teenager within the broader context of the family
How multi-generational processes and family history impact adolescent behavior and development
The concept of differentiation and how teens strive to form their own identities while balancing family expectation and outside influence
The significant role parents play in their adolescent's development
Practical advice for supporting growth, individuality and connection for the family

Examples include: every John Hughes movie, music, sports, peer pressure, and summer camp

This episode is for professionals, parents, teens or anyone navigating this pivotal stage of life. Tune in to discover how systems thinking is useful in adolescence.

Recommended Resources:

The Murray Bowen Archives Project
Elevator Systems Seasons 1 & 2
Family Matters, Surviving the Teen Years
Avrum Nadigel: Learning to Commit
Avrum Nadigel: It Takes More than Love
Avrum Nadigel: Where Would you Like to Start: A Master Therapist on Beginning Psychotherapy with Families
Dr. Ron Richardson: Family Ties that Bind
Dr. Daniel J. Siegel: Brainstorm
Dr. Kathleen Smith: True to You by

New podcast episodes released every Tuesday this season—stay tuned as we explore relationships across the lifespan!

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Living Systems Counselling and Training provides educational material for those interested in learning more about Bowen family systems theory: https://livingsystems.ca

Living Systems Hybrid Conference: October 17–18, 2025

Conference theme: Aging—Individual Challenge or Family Opportunity?

Learn more: https://livingsystems.ca/education/conferences/fall-2025-conference-on-aging/

Key Topics:#BowenFamilySystems #LivingSystems #MurrayBowen #Therapy #SystemsThinking #Family #Adolescence #Adolescents #Teens #Teenager #Growth #Development #PeerPressure #Expectations #JohnHughes #TheBreakfastClub #TherapyPodcast #MentalHealth #Relationships #DifferentiationOfSelf #Differentiation #BowenTheory #ElevatorSystems #FamilySystemsTheory #ElevatorSystemsPodcast #MurrayBowenArchives #TMBAP #TheMurrayBowenArchivesProject

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is general information about Bowen family systems theory and is not considered the practice of counselling or therapy. The information presented are the views of the people who say them. Any information used from this podcast is used at your own risk.