ABSTRACT

Though general systems theory is currently the prevailing paradigm in family therapy and social work, there is no accessible text that treats its basic concepts. This book fills the gap by presenting the central ideas of general systems theory in clear and simple language, with a focus on the social sciences.

chapter Chapter 1|13 pages

Introduction

part One|54 pages

Concepts

chapter Chapter 2|17 pages

Context

chapter Chapter 3|18 pages

Causality

chapter Chapter 4|14 pages

Change

part Two|70 pages

Characteristics

chapter Chapter 5|17 pages

Content

chapter Chapter 6|13 pages

Communication

chapter Chapter 7|16 pages

Emotion

chapter Chapter 8|18 pages

Moving Ahead