The basic therapeutic principle of Bowen Theory is that ” …… the emotional problem between two people will resolve automatically if they can remain in contact with a third person who can remain free of the emotional field between them, while actively relating to each” (Bowen, 1978, p. 229). During the group sessions, it was important for me to see emotional process flowing back and forth among the participants. By building their models, participants were able to observe and “see” the relationship patterns with their family members and how s/he relate to each of them. Majority of them were inspired with a quote from Dr. Bowen that … …
“An entire family can be changed through the effort of one person.”
(Bowen, 1978, p.246)
Without putting the blame on others or taking the blame from others, participants were encouraged to reflect on their “automatic responses” and “functioning pattern” while they were interacting with their family members. It was helpful to realize the reciprocal effect of one’s reaction to the other and the hypothetical beliefs that s/he holds toward the other. With a more thoughtful base of guided principles, some members were able to cut through the reactivity, such as anxiously lecturing their children or partners. By being more observant in the family and more tolerate of tension, distress and anger, it allows new relationship patterns to emerge and bring forth positive changes.
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