What is the term for a family's tendency to resist change to maintain stability?

The concept of family homeostasis refers to a family's tendency to maintain internal stability and resist change, even in the face of stress or external pressures. This stability is often achieved through established patterns of interaction, roles, and behaviors that help sustain the family's equilibrium. When a family undergoes stress or events that may bring about change, such as a child's adolescence, marital issues, or external crises, homeostasis acts as a balancing force that seeks to restore the previous state of equilibrium, often resisting transformative changes.

In general systems theory, this concept highlights the importance of balance in family dynamics and how families develop certain mechanisms to avoid disruptions. Understanding family homeostasis is essential for therapists as they work with families to identify these patterns and facilitate healthy change without overwhelming the family system. This knowledge can guide interventions aimed at fostering positive growth while respecting the family's natural inclination towards stability.