KOSTIS
ZERVANOS
Kostis Zervanos, a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, one of the main representatives of Family Systems Theory (or Bowen Theory) in Greece, presents here for the first time its key principles in a comprehensive way. Among the central concepts of Bowen Theory are self-differentiation—that is, autonomy in relation to others and the separation of thoughts from emotions—“triangles,” according to which conflict between two people is managed by the involvement of a third party, and the genogram, a tool for research and therapy.
A key feature of Bowen Theory, as described by K. Zervanos draws terms, examples, and concepts from other scientific fields as well, such as neurobiology, medicine, biology, and evolutionary biology. Family Systems Theory is based on the founder’s conclusions that: (a) at any given moment, each member of a group influences the behaviour of others with whom they come into contact through their attitudes and actions, and (b) overall, a person’s mode of functioning depends on their interactions with others.
This book serves as a guide both for the therapist and the patient, offering insight into what can be done regarding problems in the family, relationships, and the professional environment, so that the individual may become more functional. In conclusion, the author introduces us to the spirit of a psychotherapeutic theory that has enriched psychiatry and psychotherapy with fundamental concepts, is highly popular in the United States, and widely applied in workplace settings as well. It is addressed to all those who wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of how families function, and especially to those who intend to use Family Systems Theory as a tool for restructuring themselves and their relationships.
