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).
| Paper title | Principles of Family and Systems Theory |
|---|---|
| Paper code | PSME436 |
| Subject | Psychological Medicine |
| EFTS | 0.2500 |
| Points | 30 points |
| Teaching period | First Semester |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $2,801.50 |
| International Tuition Fees (NZD) | $9,869.50 |
- 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
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
