PYC4808 ASSIGNMENT 3 2025 (Answer Guide) – Due 17th September 2025

PYC4808 ASSIGNMENT 3 2025 (Answer Guide) – Due 17th September 2025 VERIFIED AND CERTIFIED ANSWERS. WRITTEN IN REQUIRED FORMAT AND WITHIN GIVEN GUIDELINES. IT IS GOOD TO USE AS A GUIDE AND FOR REFERENCE, NEVER PLAGARIZE. Thank you and success in your academics. UNISA, 2025 Contents Question 1: Ecomap of the Jackson Family 3 Introduction 3 Key Elements of the Ecomap 3 Description of the Ecomap Visual 4 Conclusion 5 Question 2: First-Order Cybernetic Perspective of the Jackson Family 6 Introduction 6 Description of the Family System from a First-Order Perspective 6 The Role of the Psychologist in First-Order Cybernetics 7 Concepts in First-Order Cybernetics Applied to the Case 7 1. Recursion 7 2. Rules and Boundaries 7 3. Openness and Closedness 8 4. Triangles 8 5. Relationship Style 8 Conclusion 8 Question 3: The Jackson Family and Jake’s Symptoms through Bowen’s Family Systems Theory 9 Introduction 9 Family Description Using Bowen’s Concepts 9 1. Differentiation of Self 9 2. Triangulation 9 3. Nuclear Family Emotional Process 10 4. Family Projection Process 10 5. Multigenerational Transmission Process 10 6. Emotional Cutoff 10 7. Sibling Position 11 Jake’s Symptoms in Context 11 Conclusion 11 Question 4: First-Order and Second-Order Change 11 Introduction 11 First-Order Change 12 Second-Order Change 12 Conclusion 12 Question 5: Ethical Considerations in First-Order and Second-Order Cybernetics 13 Introduction 13 Ethical Considerations in First-Order Cybernetics 13 Ethical Considerations in Second-Order Cybernetics 14 Critique of Systems Theory and Ethical Implications 14 Conclusion 15 References 15   Question 1: Ecomap of the Jackson Family Introduction An ecomap is a visual representation of the family in relation to its external systems and the quality of these relationships. It identifies both the sources of support and the areas of stress in the family’s social environment (Hartman, 1995). In the case of the Jackson family, the ecomap illustrates the connections between family members and external systems such as school, healthcare, extended family, and social activities. This helps to highlight the strengths and stressors influencing Jake’s wellbeing and the family dynamics as a whole. Key Elements of the Ecomap 1. The Nuclear Family System o At the centre of the ecomap are David (45), Laura (41), Jake (17), and Lily (13). o The relationship between David and Laura is strained due to contrasting emotional styles: David is emotionally withdrawn, while Laura tends to over-function. o Jake, the identified client, is caught in the middle, as Laura leans on him for emotional support, while David is distant and minimises Jake’s struggles. o Lily appears emotionally disengaged from the family, focusing instead on external friendships and drama club activities. 2. Grandparents and Extended Family o George (71), the paternal grandfather, lives in assisted living due to early dementia. His past authoritarian style influences David’s emotional suppression and perfectionism. o Evelyn (65), the paternal grandmother, remains connected but limited by anxiety and health issues. Her relationship with David is more nurturing than George’s, but also dependent.