Godsplaining Are You Repeating Your Parents' Mistakes? Unpacking The Bowen Family Theory
Dec 18, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of the Bowen Family Systems Theory, where the hosts explore how family dynamics shape individual identities. Discover the concept of emotional triangles and their role in conflict resolution. Learn about the critical idea of differentiation of self and how family traits are transmitted through generations. The conversation underscores why understanding these concepts is vital for Catholics, especially in nurturing family and community ties. It's a blend of psychology and spiritual insight that’s sure to resonate!
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Individuals As Parts Of A Family System
- Bowen frames individuals as parts of larger family systems, not isolated psyches.
- Understanding the whole can reveal why an individual's symptoms arise and how to help the system.
Pastoral Introduction To Bowen Theory
- Fr. Bonaventure recounts being given Edwin Friedman's book when entering seminary and how it introduced Bowen to him.
- That pastoral application led him to study Bowen and see families as communities with similar dynamics.
Eight Lenses For Family Dynamics
- Bowen's eight core concepts give lenses to read family emotional dynamics across contexts.
- They include triangles, differentiation, projection, multigenerational transmission, cutoffs, sibling position, and societal processes.