A Framework and Methodology for the Study of Nonlinear, Self-Organizing Family Dynamics

Abstract

Family systems theories have emerged over the past 30 to 40 years primarily through clinical observations, resulting in diverse and internally inconsistent views of family structures, development, dynamics, and pathology; as well as a separation from more empirically based small group research. The 5-R's model is intended to unify the various family systems theories and render them more empirically testable using concepts and methodologies from non-linear dynamical systems theory. The conversation of one family was analyzed using orbital decomposition as a pilot test of the most basic assumptions of the 5-R's model. An optimal string length of three was found along with evidence of coherent complexity (chaos), with Lyapunov dimensionality equal to 1.7 and Shannon's entropy equal to 8.68. Results are discussed with respect to further empirical validation of the 5-R's model and clinical uses of the model and orbital decomposition methodology in conjoint therapy.