ABSTRACT
This chapter illustrates systems psychodynamics applied to organizational consultation. Systems psychodynamics is an evolving area of theory and practice. The chapter focuses on container-contained, primary task, boundary, authority, leaders, social defenses, and task and social roles. These concepts have been found to be helpful in organizational consultation. In keeping with Laurence Gould, the chapter views systems theory as focusing on company structure, authority individuals have in their roles, division of labor, primary task and sentient relations among employees, and how the boundaries around these concepts are managed. Emery-Trist and H. Murray present the most extensive history of the development of Tavistock theory and its three interrelated perspectives (socio-psychological, socio-technical, and socio-ecological). The chapter provides information on case that includes the fast pace of a data/information computer-driven company that lost its sense of family. Edward Shapiro and Wesley Carr, using concepts from family therapy, explain how organizations shape employees and how meaningful connections can be created to enhance institutional life.
