ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the question how to organize all the collected data into a multi-systemic, diachronic and synchronic diagnostic evaluation. The joints that link the building blocks of this edifice are: (a) the types of uni-directional, bi-directional or multi-directional relations among programs, or events and program, belonging to the various subsystems (restriction of choice, shaping form or content, strengthening or weakening, mobilizing defensive responses, influencing the tempo or nature of change); (b) the types of adverse effects of such relations of influence (lacuna, distortion, shattering, fixation and regression, insoluble conflict, dysfunctional defensive response); and (c) the possible ways in which such adverse effects are reflected in the presenting problems (direct or metaphorical). These types of joints have not been chosen arbitrarily. They summarize and classify numerous concepts found in the literature. These terms constitute theoretical statements about various psychopathological phenomena, their etiologies and their external manifestations. They do not just describe the phenomena, but also constitute a part of their explanations. Nevertheless, these terms are no more than titles for very complex semiotic, information processing and cybernetic processes. A fuller multi-systemic diagnosis will not only give the titles, but will also specify in some detail the processes named by these titles.
