What is it about?
This study looks at how the overuse of technology impacts family relationships and how therapists can help families manage this challenge. The study explores three real-life case studies of families with different views on technology. Using a combination of two therapy approaches—Bowen family systems therapy and socioculturally sensitive family therapy—the therapist worked with families to help them change their attitudes toward technology. Over six therapy sessions, families learned to balance technology use with face-to-face family time, encouraging moderation and offline activities. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding how technology affects family dynamics and highlights how cultural and generational differences influence how families relate to technology. One example in the article shows how an immigrant family and their first-generation American children struggled with technology use, showing how cultural identity and generational gaps can impact how families interact with technology.
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Why is it important?
This is important because digital technology is becoming a bigger part of everyday life, but its overuse can disrupt family relationships and communication. This article emphasizes the need for therapists to understand how technology affects family interactions and to use culturally sensitive approaches when helping families manage it. It also highlights the impact of generational differences, especially in immigrant families, where technology use might differ between parents and children. As more families face challenges related to screen time, it is crucial for therapy to address not just the technology itself, but also the underlying family dynamics and cultural factors that influence technology use.
Perspectives
I wanted to shed light on the growing issue of excessive technology use within families and its effect on relationships. In today’s world, technology can be both a tool for connection and a source of conflict, which is why I felt it was important to explore how therapists can help families strike a healthy balance. By using a blend of Bowen family systems therapy and socioculturally sensitive approaches, I aimed to show how tailored interventions can address not only the technology itself but also the cultural, generational, and emotional factors at play. In my view, understanding the relationship between technology and family dynamics is essential for effective therapy, especially as technology continues to evolve. I hope this article helps raise awareness about the need for mindful technology use and encourages therapists to consider cultural differences when working with families on this issue.
Assoc. Prof. Ezra N. S. Lockhart
National University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Balancing bytes and bonds: Case studies in systemic approaches to digital dynamics in diverse family systems, Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy, October 2024, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1002/anzf.1606.
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