Structural family therapy in chronic illness: Intervention can help produce a more adaptive family structure
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
1-1-1987
Journal
Psychosomatics
Volume
28
Issue
4
DOI
10.1016/S0033-3182(87)72544-4
Abstract
A strong argument can be made that the family rather than the individual patient is the appropriate unit of treatment for the repercussions of chronic illness. Family structures can be assessed in the light of boundaries, hierarchy, alliances and coalitions, and repetitive behavioral sequences organized around the symptom, so as to enable the family therapist to design appropriate interventions. Specific examples are presented to illuminate this approach. At best, the chronically ill patient can be freed of considerable emotional suffering even when the illness cannot be cured. © 2011, The Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine. All rights reserved.
APA Citation
Griffith, J., & Griffith, M. (1987). Structural family therapy in chronic illness: Intervention can help produce a more adaptive family structure. Psychosomatics, 28 (4). http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0033-3182(87)72544-4