John R. Stafford II
Brandman University
Abstract
The cybernetic
functionality of a family unit is like that of a computer network or program.
At the core of this functionality is a set of components and systems that
operate as a single unit. The feedback loop
communicates this process. The feedback loop communicates with the
working parts of the system and generates system messages. These messages,
either positive or negative, provide an indication as to the operating status.
If the system provides positive feedback, it is indicating that the system is
operating within stated parameters, whereas negative feedback indicates a
malfunction in the system. This same process can easily be applied to a family
unit because the functionality of all
members of a family is like that of a computer network. Therapists using solid case conceptualization techniques combined with an
understanding of cybernetic function can extrapolate the human data from each
component of the family unit to assess the malfunction, and work with the
clients to develop and implement a roadmap for treatment.
Cybernetics
Cybernetics is an
investigative process that focuses on communication and control theory as
applied to the study of automated control systems (Nichols, 2013). Although
there are several meanings of the word, cybernetics was initially defined by
Norbert Wiener (1894-1964) as a scientific method of control and communication
of animals or machines (Cybernetics, n.d.; Cybernetics, 2017; Nichols, 2013). This
process of communication, detection and
status reporting is common action in computers that allows the user to detect
if the computer is operating at normal tolerance, or is a component is reaching
failure. For example, when a person initiates a computer startup, the system
first checks the functionality of all
internal components. If those components are functioning at optimal status, the
system will boot. However, if the system detects a component failure, the boot
sequence will be aborted, and the user
will receive an error message; this is called a feedback loop.
Because humans operate in a
similar manner to computers in the process of receiving, interpreting, and
storing data to memory for later retrieval, the process of applying cybernetics
to the study of humans operates in a similar manner (Ma,
Adescope, Nesbit & Liu, 2014; Nichols, 2013).
The process, if properly applied, allows researchers, doctors, and therapists
to gain an understanding of the internal
functionality of the nervous system and brain function. For example, the brain
and nervous system work in conjunction. The brain sends electronic data to the
nervous system to control body functions. If the feedback loop processes
correctly, the function will occur. However, if the process is interrupted, the
process will fail. The similar function operates in a family feedback loop. Family units are
composed of key figures like parents, children, and grandparents
(Nichols, 2013). If one or more of the components of the family unit, the
system will experience a glitch or failure, and problems will arise in the
cohesiveness of the family function (Minuchin, 1985; Nichols, 2013).
Cybernetics in Family Therapy
Family units operate in a similar manner as a
large computer network, but in a biological sense. Considering the family and the computer network are both composed of
individual autonomous systems operating at maximum capacity as a singular unit,
it is easy for researchers to distinguish family operational patterns based on
the feedback of the individual units (Ma, Adescope, Nesbit & Liu, 2014;
Nichols, 2013). The primary difference is that network specialists use
automated systems checks to ensure the network is operating at maximum
efficiency, whereas a psychologist or family therapist would use individual and
feedback received by family members to determine if the family unit is
operating at maximum efficiency (Minuchin, 1985; Nichols, 2013).
Case Conceptualization
Case conceptualization is a key component of
patient diagnosis and treatment planning (Robley, & Fulkerson, 2015;
Sanders, 2013). Additionally, case conceptualization provides additional tools
a therapist needs to collaborate with supervisors and colleagues, provide a thorough consultation, and be proficient in
examinations, and interviews (Sanders, 2013). Proper application of case
conceptualization will allow a therapist to provide a comprehensive initial
examination to determine the presenting problem, patient history, proper
diagnosis, and provide solid justification of the diagnosis (Robly, & Fulkerson,
2015; Sanders, 2013). Furthermore, the
therapist will be proficient in developing a treatment plan roadmap that takes
into consideration the aspects of human diversity, ethical and legal
considerations, and prognosis for the client(s) (Robley, & Fulkerson, 2015;
Sanders, 2013).
Conclusion
Unlike electronic interactions, people have intricacies and variations in thought process influenced by individual perceptions of events. Unlike
electronic systems, one cannot simply remove and replace the malfunctioning
component when interacting with and counseling people. Cybernetics and
case conceptualization are two key
components in determining successful therapist-client interactions, process,
and treatment. Understanding the nuances of cybernetic interactions provides
insight into an entire family unit by receiving and evaluating information
provided by the feedback loop of the individual components. Case
conceptualization enhances cybernetic interactions by providing the core skills
a therapist will use to compile the information, take an active role in
evaluating the client(s) needs, providing solid feedback, and determining a
proper course of treatment by developing obtainable and justifiable diagnosis
and prognosis.
References
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