Which model emphasizes understanding family issues through emotional systems?

Bowen Family Systems Theory is correct because it focuses on understanding family issues through the lens of emotional systems. This model is built on the premise that an individual's behavior is deeply interconnected with their family dynamics and emotional patterns. Bowen proposed that families operate as emotional units, and the interactions among family members create a set of emotional responses that can affect behavior and relationships.

The theory introduces key concepts such as differentiation of self, emotional triangles, and the multigenerational transmission process, all of which underscore the importance of emotions in the functioning of the family unit. By analyzing these emotional systems, therapists can help individuals recognize how their family relationships influence their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, facilitating healthier interactions and personal growth.

In contrast, Structural Family Therapy primarily focuses on the organization and structure of the family system, aiming to change dysfunctional interactions but placing less emphasis on the emotional underpinnings. Behavioral Family Therapy centers on altering specific behaviors through rewards and consequences, without delving into the emotional systems at play. Narrative Therapy emphasizes the stories and meanings individuals attach to their experiences, focusing more on language and personal narratives than on the emotional systems within families.