The Network Perspective: An Integration of Attachment and Family Systems Theories^*

Abstract

In this article we discuss the network paradigm as a useful base from which to integrate attachment and family systems theories. The network perspective refers to the application of general systems theory to living systems, and provides a framework that conceptualizes the dyadic and family systems as simultaneously distinct and interconnected. Network thinking requires that the clinician holds multiple perspectives in mind, considers each system level as both a part and a whole, and shifts the focus of attention between levels as required. Key epistemological issues that have hindered the integration of the theories are discussed. These include inconsistencies within attachment theory itself and confusion surrounding the theoretical conceptualizations of the relationship between attachment and family systems theories. Detailed information about attachment categories is provided using the Dynamic Maturational model. Case vignettes illustrating work with young children and their families explore the clinical implications of integrating attachment data into family therapy practice.

Daughters of Mothers With Multiple Sclerosis: Their Experiences of Play

“…"Memories can be given new interpretations with time; stories can be reframed and can evolve" (Yerby, 1995, p. 353). Over time there was a positive reframing of family circumstances (Kozlowska & Hanney, 2002). The third family (Elizabeth's family) was early in its cycle of coping with the circumstances of maternal illness and reflected many of the relationship patterns that the other families had already negotiated.…”

“…When Elizabeth was in the role of her mom's caregiver (Kozlowska & Hanney, 2002), the support she provided may have contributed to her mom doing less for herself than she was perhaps capable of doing. Stated differently, in her role as a caregiver, Elizabeth was affording her mom's disengagement in some activities she was possibly capable of fulfilling, which may have created a perception in Elizabeth's mind that she was indispensable (Beavin Bavelas & Segal, 1982).…”

“…In other words, changes that occur within families become part of a feedback loop that works to re-stabilize the family in some way (Kozlowska & Hanney, 2002;Yerby, 1995). For example, the entire system (family) may react to a disruption in the system such as a child desiring to leave home through individual actions (Beavin Bavelas & Segal, 1982).…”

Apego em casais com um filho com Autismo

“…No entanto, esta premissa, apenas na última década, vem sendo sujeita a uma análise mais intensiva, com o estudo do apego no sistema familiar, sob o enfoque sistêmico (BELSKY, 2005;KOZLOWSKA;HANNEY, 2002;LIDDLE;SCHWARTZ, 2002;MINUCHIN, 2002). Para Byng-Hall (2002), o uso da teoria dos sistemas pode complementar a teoria do apego.…”

A trajetória de usuários de crack para a situação de rua na perspectiva de familiares

“…Para a apreensão dessa realidade elegemos as lentes teóricas da abordagem sistêmica, a qual tem sido considerada a abordagem mais adequada para estudos envolvendo famílias com problemas de saúde, inclusive problemas de saúde mental, pois contribui para uma visão ampliada e uníssona do sistema familiar (KOZLOWSKA;HANNEY, 2002;GALERA;LUIS, 2002;COSTA; Deste modo é possível entender o mecanismo de regulação do sistema, que lhe confere autonomia (WIENER, 1961;VASCONCELLOS;GOMES et al, 2014 …”