PYC4808_Exam_Prep

INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOLOGY (Western) vs SYSTEMIC PSYCHOLOGY Most of us have been socialised into a Western, Lockean scientific tradition. Most individual psychology approaches rest on the assumptions of this linear worldview. Systems theory directs our attention away from the individual and moves towards and emphasis on recursion, reciprocity and mutual influence. Discuss this fundamental shift in worldviews by referring to the fundamental assumptions of both traditional individual psychology approaches and systems theory. (10) ‘Individual psychology approaches are based on assumptions that are fundamental to the western, Lockean tradition, while systemic family therapy rests on a very different set of assumptions. Discuss this statement by comparing the assumptions of systems theory. In your answer provide a definition of epistemology. (20-25)  Whereas individual psychology approaches are based on assumptions fundamental to the Western, Lockean tradition, systemic family therapy rests on a very different set of assumptions.  Western, Lockean, scientific tradition.  Modernism Linear casualty (A causes B)  In Individual psychology, the assumptions are consistent with such basic American values as individual responsibility and autonomy.  Socialised in this way of thinking – consistent without communities + our culture  Reality is out there, outside our minds and the truth is to be discovered  Objective reality – break down into smaller components and uncover laws according to which the world operates  Pursue knowledge by means of observation + experimentation  These results are measurable and objective. The subject (observing) remain separate from object and be value free  In Systemic family therapy, however, the underlying assumptions are contradictory to the traditional ways of thinking in Western society.  Hence, our use of the term ‘counter-cultural’ to characterise systems theory and cybernetics.  Systems theory/cybernetics directs our attention away from the individual and individual problems viewed in isolation and toward relationships and relationship issues between individuals.  In contrast to the Lockean tradition, systems theory is consistent with the tradition labelled as Kantian.  Accordingly, the observer replaces the observed as the focus of attention. 1  Subjectivity is seen as inevitable based on the assumption that the one who is observing perceives, acts on, and participates in creating his or her own reality.  In addition, the interdependence of observer and observed is an important aspect of a holistic perspective that takes into account the context of their interaction.  Such interaction is seen as a non-causal, dialectical process of mutual exchange in which both have influence.  Finally, understanding a family or other system requires assessing patterns of interaction, with an emphasis on what is happening, rather than why it is happening