Elevator Systems - Bowen Family Systems Theory
S2 Ep1 Triangles: Inside & Outside Positions with Kathleen Cotter Cauley
Jan 7, 2025
Kathleen Cotter Cauley, a licensed marriage and family therapist and faculty member of the Bowen Center, discusses the fascinating world of triangles in family systems. She explores how inside and outside positions affect relationships and shares personal anecdotes about family dynamics, like feeling excluded at gatherings. The conversation highlights the importance of self-awareness in navigating complex relational dynamics and trusting adult children to make their own choices. Listeners will walk away with tools to manage anxiety and deepen their understanding of their own interactions.
32:22
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Quick takeaways
- Triangles in Bowen Family Systems Theory illustrate how emotional roles within three individuals impact relationships during conflicts.
- Understanding inside and outside positions in triangles helps individuals navigate feelings of inclusion or exclusion in social and family dynamics.
Deep dives
Understanding Triangles in Relationships
Triangles represent a fundamental concept in Bowen Family Systems Theory, illustrating how conflicts and emotional connections are structured among three individuals. In high-anxiety situations, individuals often gravitate towards specific roles within a triangle, which can lead to tension and shifts in emotional alliances. The dynamics of triangles can be seen in everyday scenarios, such as when family members rally support during conflicts or when one feels excluded or in an outside position. Recognizing these patterns can help individuals navigate their relationships more effectively by understanding their roles and the emotional responses triggered in these situations.
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