Family Structure

            A structure of the family is described as the composition of the family which involves relationships and roles of the family (Sharf, 2012).  The methodology o systems families as both closed as open with boundaries that are inflexible which help in determining functional and structural components of the family.  Therefore when the   structure theory of the family   is made up of several boundaries then a family which is characterized as dysfunctional will overcome and cross the developed boundaries.  Family dysfunction results in chaos for the general family and this may be developed by a family member who is involved in drugs and alcohol abuse. Death occurrence in any family is an addition reason that may result in dysfunction (Sharf, 2012). Family structure can be described as the family code that cannot be seen where the family interacts and operates with anyone.

            In determining whether a family is dysfunctional this can be determined through the occurrences in the family.  For instance, a couple may start with being happy before starting to depart slowly (Sharf, 2012).  Then after the divorce, the man is diagnosed with a long-term ailment after which the wife gets married to another.  This, therefore, portrays the conflict that is in the particular family. This, therefore, shows that the family is dysfunctional (Sharf, 2012).  The family is, therefore, dysfunctional because it is unable to cross the developed boundaries. While family that is able to overcome the conflicts which are the boundaries can be termed as not dysfunctional.  If the structure of the family, therefore, can be able to handle the effects caused by the situation then it automatically becomes dysfunctional.  However, if the event tends to be disturbing the family can thus be characterized by the abnormality.

 

            Reference

            Sharf, R. S. (2012). Theories of psychotherapy and counseling: Concepts and cases. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.