Dysfunction and Failure in Open Family Systems, I: Application of a Unified Theory

Abstract

Open family systems are frequently modeled as inherently functional or healthy; however, systematic research and theoretical consideration of potentially dysfunctional patterns is lacking. Using an expanded, integrating theory to bridge gaps among other models, a composite profile of failure and dysfunction in open family systems can be constructed. Thus, failed open families are characterized by excessive and chaotic interaction, prolonged conflict, and ambiguity, tending to overtax individual resources, eventually leading to collapse and separation. Somatic symptoms of stress in children may grow out of accelerated independence combined with parental overinvolvement. The combined features of failed open families are readily understood within the integrating framework.