PSME436 Principles of Family and Systems Theory

A theoretical paper exploring the major models of Family Therapy theory and practice from an integrative perspective through analysis and critique.

PSME 436 Principles of Family and Systems Theory introduces, in depth, the field of systemic and family therapy theory. Students will learn the tenets of the major schools of family therapy and apply these to families. This distance-taught paper is primarily theoretical, though some observation of family systems is required. Students will critically appraise the theories of family therapy and discover the evidence base for this field.

PSME 436 provides an opportunity for those practising family therapy or for those who wish to use systemic ideas within their health or educational context to gain a qualification in the area. This paper leads to a Postgraduate Certificate when paired with another appropriate paper. This paper is a component of the Certificate qualification and meets many of the requirements that the Association of Family Therapy (UK) suggests for foundation- and intermediate-level training.

This paper includes some skill-based sessions and an expectation of some fieldwork (eight hours).

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Restriction

PSMX 436

Limited to

MHealSc, PGCertHealSc, PGDipHealSc

Notes

i) Students must be able to demonstrate a basic level of counselling/therapy skills. (ii) It is preferable that students have access to a setting that allows them to see systemic ideas in practice.

Teaching staff

Course Convenor and Lecturer: Julie Burgess-Manning
Other senior family therapists representing a variety of models

Paper Structure

Topics covered include:

• Systems theory
• Schools of family therapy
• Evidence base
• Applications of systems theory to families

Learning Aims and Objectives of Paper:

• To provide an in-depth understanding of the principles of systems theory
• To develop skills in the application of systems theory to families
• To introduce and critique the major schools of family therapy
• To develop knowledge of the evidence base for systems and family therapies

FST Brochure.

Workload:

Contact hours (63 hours): Two 3-day workshops spread over the semester

Students are also required to have eight hours of participation in a family therapy team or equivalent (discussed and approved by course conveners).

Seven hours (one hour per fortnight) in discussion group, by phone, email/web or in person.

Non-contact hours (237 hours): Class preparation, background reading, preparation of assignments and preparation for discussion group.

Teaching Arrangements

This paper will be block taught. Attendance at all block worshops is compulsory, and students are required to make travel arrangements around the dates and times.

Students will be part of a discussion group throughout the semester so that they remain connected to the student group and tutors and are able to pace their learning. The discussion group will focus on current theoretical learning.

Textbooks

Block course pre-readings information will be sent closer to the first block course.

This paper emphasises an evidence base for family therapy, and students are expected to use research to inform their work.

Graduate Attributes Emphasised

Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural understanding, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.

Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the paper will have

• A thorough understanding of the theory of systems, such that the student can perceive systems in action
• A comprehensive grounding in main schools of family theory through reading and discussion of key literature and evidence
• The ability to discuss theoretical background of interventions and to assess the appropriateness of their use

Eligibility

Applicants need to have an appropriate health and/or counselling education qualification (extensive experience will be considered) and need to be working in a context within which the fieldwork component of the paper can be completed.

Applicants are invited to commence phase one of online enrolment with the University (www.otago.ac.nz). As there is a clinical component to this paper, all registered applicants will be sent an Application for Acceptance form to complete and submit.

Enrolments for this paper require departmental permission. View more information about departmental permission.

Contact

maria.fitzmaurice@otago.ac.nz

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