The imbalance technique in family therapy

The imbalance is a therapeutic technique used in family therapy to modify the dynamics of power and communication within the family system. It is used when an imbalance is identified in the family hierarchy, where one or more members exercise dominant control over others.

The main objective of the imbalance is to break with the established roles and patterns that maintain dysfunctional dynamics, and promote a healthier and more equitable balance.

Content

• How the imbalance works
• Application of the imbalance technique
  • An example case
  • References

How the imbalance works

The imbalance is a strategy that is used to interrupt dysfunctional patterns in family relationships and promote a change in dynamics. In a family, there may be imbalances of power, inverted roles or situations in which a member assumes responsibilities or excessive control over others.

The objective of the imbalance is to raise awareness and cause a reflection on these dysfunctional dynamics. The therapist can intervene in different ways to challenge and question the roles and behaviors that perpetuate the imbalance.

For example, the therapist can directly go to a family member who is assuming an excessive control or caregiver and ask questions that make him reflect on his role. This can help the member realize that he is assuming responsibilities that do not correspond to him or that he is preventing other members from developing and making decisions for themselves.

By generating this reflection, it seeks to promote a change in family dynamics. Members can begin to recognize the importance of the autonomy and balanced participation of each individual in the family. This can lead to a rebalancing in the distribution of power and greater collaboration in decision -making and problem solving.

Application of the imbalance technique

The imbalance is applied in various ways in family therapy, depending on the specific needs and dynamics of each family. Some of the most common techniques include:

1. Alter the structure: The therapist can change the physical disposition of family members during the therapeutic session to interrupt the usual interactions and foster new forms of communication. By changing physical places and positions, a new context is created that allows family members to experience different roles and perspectives.
2. Challenge beliefs and norms: In this case the therapist questions the beliefs and norms entrenched in the family that maintain the imbalance. Expectations and implicit rules are explored to promote reflection and change. When challenging these beliefs, the possibility of establishing new family standards and values ​​that promote a more balanced and healthy dynamic opens.
3. Task assignment: The therapist can assign specific tasks to family members to challenge established roles and promote new forms of interaction. These tasks may involve shared responsibilities, joint decision -making or activities that foster collaboration and mutual support. Through these tasks, it seeks to rebalance power and foster greater participation of all family members.
4. Support for the most vulnerable members: In cases of power imbalance, the therapist can form an alliance with a family member who is at a disadvantage position. This alliance is created with the purpose of giving power and support to that member, providing him with the opportunity to express himself and participate more equitably in family dynamics. The professional becomes a defender of this person, which can help challenge and question the dysfunctional position of the other members.

This intervention Allows the disadvantage member to be heard and take an active role In family decision making. By strengthening its position, the therapist seeks to level the family hierarchy and promote a healthier balance in the system. However, it is important that the therapist takes into account the emotional well -being of all members and addresses any negative conflict or reaction that may arise as a result of this intervention.

The imbalance does not always imply a permanent change in the family hierarchy, but seeks to create a space where all members have the opportunity to express themselves and participate equally, as well as avoid the investment of roles if there were them. As dysfunctional roles and patterns are challenged, more open communication is encouraged and a positive change in family dynamics is promoted as a whole.

An example case

Ana and Luis are a couple with a sixteen -year -old son named Javier and a twelve -year -old daughter named Carolina. During the family therapy sessions, it has been identified that Javier has assumed a paternal role towards Carolina, making decisions and assuming responsibilities that correspond to parents. This has generated an investment of roles and has parentful the eldest son of the family.

The therapist recognizes the importance of modifying these inverted roles to promote a change. During a session, the therapist addresses Javier as follows: "Javier, tell your parents what plans you have for Carolina for the next course. Would you like to do music extracurricular or better English? Maybe could do both?".

With this intervention, the therapist is challenging the family to reflect on the brother's role towards the youngest daughter. In doing so, it is sought for Javier.

As the sessions progress, the therapist can continue working with Javier to help him release the caregiver role, allow Carolina to begin to assume his own responsibility in decision making, and give more authority to the parents in these issues.

Simultaneously, the therapist works with Ana and Luis to assume a more active role in decision making and provide Carolina the space necessary to develop their autonomy. They can also be encouraged to validate Carolina's ideas and opinions, promoting their personal growth and ability to make their own decisions.

Border setting in family therapy

References

• Satir, v. (2000). Step by step therapy. Herder.
• Minuchin, s., Fishman, h. C., & Vásquez, C. (2010). Systemic Family Therapy: History, Theory and Practice. Gedisa.
• COLAPINTO, J., & Sluzki, C. AND. (1999). Family Therapy Manual. Paidós.