Communication Theory in Family Therapy
- Communication theory is a theory that explains how the methods of communication, the subtle ques of communication and the processes of communication influence people. Communication theory holds a prominent place in family therapy because many issues that need addressing through therapy stemmed from problems in communication.
- While researching the origins of familial schizophrenia in the 70s, researchers discovered that faulty communication pattens in the sequence of family interactions could lead to dysfunctions in a family. In light of this discovery, it was believed that utilizing communication theory (in an effort to improve communication techniques) could lead to improvements in family interaction and minimize the possibility of dysfunctions in a family.
- Communication problems arise when what is said by one family member is not interpreted the same by another member. This subtle shift in perception is known as the study of semantics. There are two other areas of studies that are frequently used in communication theory to explain discrepancy and conflicts in human communications. They are syntax and pragmatics. Syntax focuses on the manner, style, pattern and the form in which communications are transmitted between individuals. Pragmatics describes behavioral form of communication and the consequences resulting from the effects of such behaviors.
- Many of the traditional theories of communication theory can be used in family therapy. For instance, family member A, described as the sender in "Interpersonal Deception," by theorists, Buller and Burgoon, manipulates the message to achieve the individual's ulterior purpose or at least attempts to do so. Family member A reacts with an attitude of apprehension when the truthfulness of his statement is challenged. Family member B, described as the receiver in the theory, being aware of family member A's habit of manipulation, attempts to always evaluate the validity of his message.
The constant suspicion is making both family member A and B uncomfortable. Coming to an understanding as to how "Interpersonal Deception" will affect the level of trust between family members can help both members of the family see the origin of the problem. Once the origin of the disharmony is identified, the members involved could work towards resolving the problem by getting to the heart of the issue, those issues that result in the member's need to deceive one another. Once the real issue is resolved, the members would naturally be able improve their communication style. - Marital Communication is a communication theory discovered by Mary Anne Fitzpatrick. The theory suggests that a marital relationship is determined by three factors: conflict, ideology and independence. However, none of these factors alone determines the quality of the relationship. There are also three dimensions of marital relationship that Fitzpatrick categorizes under this theory: traditionals, independents and the separates. Understanding the implications of these dimensions help the family members reach a more thorough comprehension to the reasons why certain parental figures acted the way they did, and also how their behaviors influence his expectation of future relationships.
- When the family goes to therapy, the theories presented such as those labeled "communication" theory are only one tool out of the very many that may shed light on a complex family situation. As there tends to be judgment, emotional pain and burden of the past that linger around the surface issues, there are no neat answers or one-size- fits-all theory that could explain the confusion and discomfort involved in the situation. Which character traits, behavior pattern or forms of communication are to be challenged, and those that serve the family well can only be answered by exploring the different components of the family.
