ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the basic tenets of general systems theory as well as key concepts from select schools of family therapy and explores how these assumptions and concepts have been used to serve diverse family forms. It specifically emphasizes human behavior principles that explain differences in family culture, composition, and developmental processes. The chapter examines the literature that takes issue with the family systems perspective assessment and intervention techniques, particularly the application of the family systems perspective in certain family therapy approaches. Systems theory suggests a number of concepts that may be applied to diverse family forms. As social workers increasingly serve families of diverse forms and cultural backgrounds, it is imperative for them to sensitively and selectively use family-focused interventions and address family patterns and belief systems. Social workers have a framework for understanding the cultural context of how client families seek help.
