MHW 512 Family Dynamics And Systems Worksheet 2 As A Mental

Mhw 512 Family Dynamics And Systems Worksheet 2as A Mental Health Work

A mental health worker must understand family systems, including individuals, their roles, and boundaries, to effectively analyze family dynamics. This assignment involves viewing the film "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" and reading its corresponding case study to explain the concept of homeostasis, describe family efforts to maintain it, and identify family structures within workplaces. Additionally, it requires analyzing biblical family stories to discuss traumatic event responses and exploring family dynamics within King David's kingdom, citing biblical and scholarly sources.

Paper For Above instruction

The concept of homeostasis refers to the biological and systemic process by which an organism or system maintains stability and equilibrium amidst internal or external changes. In family systems, homeostasis is a shared goal to uphold consistent functioning and relational patterns despite stressors or crises (Minuchin, 1974). Achieving this balance involves managing roles, boundaries, and rituals to keep the family cohesive. Disruptions often lead to adaptations aimed at restoring stability, sometimes reinforcing dysfunctional patterns that impede growth (Nichols, 2013).

In the case study of "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" and the film, Gilbert's family actively works to sustain homeostasis by maintaining routines, roles, and expectations that stabilize their collective existence. For instance, Gilbert assumes responsibility as the caregiver for his family members, including his morbidly obese mother and his mentally disabled brother. This role helps preserve the family's sense of normalcy and control. The family members adapt to their circumstances, accepting limitations and restraining external changes to avoid chaos, even amid emotional and financial hardship (Watzlawick, Weakland, & Fisch, 1974). Their efforts exemplify systemic attempts to preserve existing relational patterns, even when those patterns are dysfunctional.

Various family structures exist within the workplace, often reflecting broader societal and organizational systems. These can include hierarchical structures, where authority and decision-making flow from managers to employees; team-based structures emphasizing collaboration and shared responsibility; and matrix structures blending hierarchical and project-based relationships. Also, boundary permeability varies across organizations, influencing communication and role expectations. These workplace family models mimic kinship patterns by establishing roles, norms, and routines that foster cohesion and productivity (Kraut & Korman, 2018). Understanding these structures helps mental health professionals address issues related to workplace stress, conflict, and organizational change.

Biblical narratives provide rich examples of family dynamics and responses to trauma, illustrating efforts to restore homeostasis following crises. After Cain kills Abel, Adam and Eve's family faces profound grief and shame. They attempt to restore stability by continuing to rebuild their community, although their relationships are strained. The biblical account emphasizes divine judgment and God's ongoing involvement, guiding the family's adjustments (Genesis 4:1-16). Scholars suggest that their efforts reflect a need to re-establish divine and familial order after violent disruption (Levenson, 2010).

Following David's anointment as king, his family experiences upheaval and attempts at stabilization. His brothers and father initially struggle with jealousy, rivalry, and insecurity. David's rise to kingship leads to new family roles and tensions, as he must manage perceptions and relational shifts. The family seeks coherence through loyalty and allegiance, although political and personal conflicts threaten their harmony. Scholars note that such dynamics exemplify efforts to maintain social and familial order amid changing power structures (Ross, 2004).

In the case of Jacob and Esau, reconciliation efforts post-betrayal and rivalry highlight the family's attempt to re-establish harmony. Jacob's deceit in obtaining Esau's birthright and subsequent flight disrupt their relationship. Their eventual reunion involves wrestling with forgiveness and acceptance, signifying a process of restoring trust and equilibrium in their familial bond (Genesis 32-33). The biblical narrative underscores the importance of reconciliation mechanisms in family systems following conflict.

Ruth and Naomi's relationship illustrates resilience and adaptive bonding after external adversity. Naomi's loss of her family results in Ruth's loyalty and commitment, which sustains both women through hardship. Their mutual dependence and support serve to revitalize their family system, exemplifying how trauma can lead to strengthened relational bonds and recovery pathways (Ruth 1-4). Their story emphasizes themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and collective survival in the face of adversity.

The family dynamics within King David's kingdom reflect complex hierarchies and power relationships. King David's relationship with Bathsheba involves themes of sin, repentance, and forgiveness, influencing subsequent family stability. His sons, Absalom and Solomon, embody rivaling ambitions and leadership struggles, causing upheaval within the royal household (2 Samuel 11-12; 15-18). Scholars interpret these narratives as illustrating how authority and kinship are intertwined with moral and political contention, affecting systemic stability (McCarter, 2000). Each relationship demonstrates the ongoing effort to maintain familial and political order amid internal strife.

References

• Levenson, J. D. (2010). The Death and Resurrection of Adam: Recovering Our Humanity through the Biblical Story. Westminster John Knox Press.
• Kraut, R., & Korman, J. (2018). Organizational Behavior in Health Care (4th ed.). Springer Publishing.
• McCarter, P. G. (2000). The First and Second Books of Samuel. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing.
• Minuchin, S. (1974). Families and Family Therapy. Harvard University Press.
• Nichols, M. P. (2013). Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods (10th ed.). Pearson.
• Ross, M. (2004). The Life and Times of David: A Biblical Biography. Oxford University Press.
• Watzlawick, P., Weakland, J., & Fisch, R. (1974). Change: Principles of Problem Formation and Problem Resolution. W. W. Norton & Company.