Broderick, C. B. (1993). Understanding family process: Basics of family systems theory. Sage Publications, Inc.
Family process or family systems theory is the basic theoretical model underlying most contemporary family therapy. In "Understanding Family Process," Carlfred Broderick explains 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; and family rituals such as traditions, rites of passage, and celebrations are explored. Perfectly suited for use in courses on family systems and family theory, "Understanding Family Process" makes a sound contribution to the desired integration of the growing body of knowledge about how families function. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)