The field of mediation currently lacks a unifying theoretical foundation. This book attempts to remedy that by presenting one such comprehensive theoretical model. Family systems theory is based on the work of Murray Bowen, who was among the initial proponents of family therapy. Bowen family systems theory describes human relationships and human functioning using a systemic lens that conceptualizes human behavior through an intricate web of emotional processes. As a practicing mediator, teacher, and academic, Regina offers a systemic understanding of successful mediation, meditation techniques, the relationships between disputants, and the importance of mediator emotional maturity. He discusses the co-mediator relationship, the effects of multiple parties such as attorneys and stakeholder groups on the mediation process, the reasons for failed mediation, and the overall importance of theory in practice. This book provides a practical guide for the mediation practitioner and will assist both experienced and novice mediators in successfully navigating the often-intense, emotional minefield of mediation.

One look inside Clinical Applications of Bowen Family Systems Theory, and you’ll see that your most current clinical dilemmas are not as difficult to solve as you think. You’ll find plenty of information to assist you in treating a vast audience of populations--the elderly, college students, troubled couples, remarried families, and children with severe medical problems. You’ll also find that you’re able to apply the Bowen systems theory to nearly every clinical situation--emotional dysfunction in children, alcoholism, incest, divorce, depression, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Clinical Applications of Bowen Family Systems Theory is an ideal companion for family therapists, clinical psychologists, clinical social workers, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and counselors. You’ll find your working comprehension of Murray Bowen’s work will grow, and you’ll become more adept at applying what you read in real-life clinical situations, especially in these related areas: family systems assessment based on the Bowen Theory marital fusion and differentiation bridging emotional cut-off from a former spouse dealing with a child-focused divorce case studies of alcoholism and family systems Clinical Applications of Bowen Family Systems Theory is the first book to collect, illustrate, and walk you through a full application of this highly effective treatment method in any number of clinical settings. Both beginning and experienced therapists will find interesting reading in the history of the theory, and the result will be interested clients who begin to create functional, thriving personal histories for themselves.

Systems theory is the basic theoretical model underlying most contemporary family therapy. In this accessible introduction, the author traces how systems theory gave rise to family systems theory, outlines the basic propositions of family systems and links it both to other family theory literature and to clinical practice. Among the topics covered are relational space, family boundaries, family stratification and child socialization. Family meanings and such shared realities as family folklore, stories, myths and memorabilia are discussed. Family rituals are also explored.

Dr. Wayne Regina has applied Bowen family systems theory throughout his professional life and through his many careers. These roles include family psychologist, marriage and family therapist, mediator, conciliator, college and university professor, supervisor, and educational leader as college dean and charter school executive director. Living Systems, his professional memoir, documents this decades-long journey. It articulates the essentials of Bowen family systems theory and the challenges and successes in applying this theory to practical, real-world situations. Throughout, Dr. Regina provides a wealth of examples in employing Bowen theory to his various professional endeavors.

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 1 Bowen Theory in Perspective. 2 The Family As a Unit. 3 Bowen Family Systems Theory. 4 Family Systems Theory in Clinical Practice. 5 A Clinical Situation: The "B" Family. 6 Training in Theory, Thought, and Therapy.