What is it about?
This article describes how to effectively use the family circle instrument to assess families from a family systems perspective. The author explains the theoretical underpinnings of the family circle as well as how this instrument supplements assessment data that is provided by the genogram and ecomap. Finally, this article presents outcome data from several years of evaluations in which graduate social work students were taught to use the family circle instrument as part of a class exercise.
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Why is it important?
There is a dearth of knowledge in social work, family counseling, or psychology literature on the family circle instrument. This instrument is extremely easy to administer and provides a viable way to supplement family assessment data that is provided by the genogram and ecomap. Every program that teaches family interventions should have training on how to effectively use the family circle instrument.
Perspectives
This research and article has the potential for having a significant impact on how family counselors assess families. This article not only provides data, but it also provides a procedure for how to actually conduct a family circle interview as well as teach others how to use this instrument in an educational environment.
Clinical Associate Professor Dexter R. Freeman
University of Kentucky
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Using family circles to increase competency and confidence in social work, Journal of Family Social Work, August 2018, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/10522158.2018.1496508.
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