FAMILY FUNCTIONALITY IN CONTEXT OF SYSTEMIC FAMILY THERAPY AND FAMILY CONSTELLATIONS METHOD

Abstract

This paper analyses family functioning from the perspectives of family systemic therapy and family constellations method. In explaining family functionality Olson (2000) describes this phenomenon from the point of view of present situation, analyzing current patterns of family functioning, whereas Hellinger (2014) describes it from the perspective of transgenerational transmission. Both approaches emphasize the importance of differentiation from the family of origin. They find the problem of pathological loyalty to the family of origin important for understanding the dysfunctional patterns of family functioning, although they analyze it from different perspectives. Both methods can fully contribute to the healing of family and the individual: family constellations by successfully resolving the problems in the unconscious sphere, and systemic approach by helping development of awareness and understanding of family functioning. Systemic family therapy and family constellations can represent a good synthesis of therapeutic methods that, when used together, can significantly contribute to the harmonious family functioning.