HUMAN SYSTEMS CONSULTANT- USING FAMILY THERAPY IN ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

This paper describes and demonstrates the application of family systems therapy to the workplace. Practical applications of family systems therapy are reviewed, including consultation with organizations, counseling troubled employees, and working with family-owned and -operated busines.-^es, Basic similarities and diflerences between and families are discussed Examples of specific concepts and techniques that have been shown to be efiective in are presented. These include assessment, triangulation, homeostasis, difTerentiation, coalitions, and boundaries, A background in family systems therapy, as well as a general understanding of organizational dynamics. IS shown to be valuable for consultants working with organizations. As corporate and political face greater and more complex challenges, organizational consultants must develop new and better approaches to help them through these changing times. A common complaint regarding the techniques of some consultants is the lack of an adequate theory to explain and predict organizational behavior. This paper looks at the application of family systems theory to organizations. Family .systems theory is just beginning to be used by business consultants and there are aspects ofthe theory which lend themselves to greater use in helping develop, accept change, and understand their internal conflicts. What can a family therapist do for a commercial enterprise? There are several possibilities: those trained in family systems theory can provide consultation to organizations, counsel employees experiencing problems in their personal or work lives, and they can work with family-owned businesses. The family therapist utilizing a system approach has a reservoir of knowledge and skills that is greatly needed and can add immeasurably to the effectiveness of business organizations (Borwick, 1986, p. 440). In addition, family therapy offers a theoretical approach for organizational development (Hirschhorn & Gilmore, 1980).