Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

In Bowen's family systems theory, what does a two-person system represent when it undergoes stress?

1. A situation of conflict resolution

2. A stable and balanced environment

3. An unstable system needing a third person

4. A healthy communication model

The correct answer is: An unstable system needing a third person

In Bowen's family systems theory, a two-person system under stress often leads to increased emotional reactivity, which can destabilize the relationship. When one or both individuals in the dyad feel overwhelmed or challenged by external pressures, it may cause them to function less effectively as a unit. In such scenarios, the introduction of a third person can serve as a way to alleviate tension or provide perspective, though it can also complicate matters. This dynamic reflects a common phenomenon in relationships where stress prompts individuals to seek support or involvement from others outside of the primary partnership. The involvement of a third party can alter the interaction patterns within the dyad, influencing how conflicts are managed and how emotional support is sought, often making the existing two-person system more unstable. In contrast, a situation of conflict resolution implies that the individuals are effectively working through their differences, which contradicts the instability suggested in a stressed system. A stable and balanced environment would indicate that the system is functioning well without external stressors. Lastly, a healthy communication model generally signifies that the two individuals can discuss and manage their differences constructively, which does not align with the common state of a two-person system under significant stress.