Understanding the Theories of the Family

A discussion we had early in the semester pertained to the different theories of family interaction. I don't feel that any of these theories can explain all the interaction between family members but together they give us a good idea. One theory is the family systems theory. This theory supports the assumption that families are systems and must therefore be analyzed as a whole instead of by its parts. The family is something bigger than just the sum of its individual parts. Within this theory there are subsystem groups, smaller groups within the larger system. They have roles and rules among them also. Another theory is the conflict theory. This theory asserts that two people can not have their way at the same time.They see the family as interacting a way where there is a struggle over resources like money or time. The exchange theory is a very economic one. It weighs the cost and benefit on relationships and interaction in the family. The cost and rewards are considered before acting. Finally, there is the symbolic interaction theory. This theory relates that we are shaped by where are perceptions of events are. Though a family member perceives their actions as loving, if the receiver has a different perception of what their action was then it is not well received. Again, some theories fit better with certain situations. All are an attempt to explain the interactions between members of the most sacred unit: the family.