We continue the series on basic concepts in Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST). Today\u2019s question: Are there \u201chealthy\u201d and \u201cunhealthy\u201d triangles (or ways of being in key triangles)? If so, what\u2019s the difference?<\/p>\n
Like all of the concepts in BFST, the concept of triangles is more nuanced and dynamic than we first realize. I think it\u2019s helpful to approach triangles as representative of \u201cdynamics\u201d in a system. Therefore, it helps to ask, \u201cWhat dynamic is behind this triangle?\u201d <\/p>\n
A triangle spawned from acute reactivity in relationship to anxiety is different from a triangle that is structured as a corrective for the system. For example, a parent who triangles a child into issues related to the parent\u2019s marital partner is qualitatively different from a triangle in an organization, say a church, intended to maintain a balance of power. One is an anxiety triangle and one is a structural triangle. Both types follow the same rules about how triangles work. <\/p>\n
I suspect that even the terms \u201chealthy\u201d and \u201cunhealthy\u201d are not accurate to use for triangles. Triangles are a product of the dynamics at play in a system, therefore, they provide a function rather than directly provide content or quality. Triangles are patterns that form as a way to facilitate the dynamic of systemic, or personal, anxiety. In other words: triangles just \u201care\u201d and they are neither good or bad, nor healthy or unhealthy.<\/p>\n
I think it\u2019s more accurate to approach triangles from the perspective of, \u201cTo the extent that triangles in a system facilitate ways for anxiety to work towards a resolution, triangles are helpful to the system. And, to the extent triangles in a system become patterns for binding anxiety or inhibiting change and maturity, then triangles are unhealthy.\u201d <\/p>\n
From, Perspectives on Congregational Leadership: Applying Systems Theory for Effective Leadership<\/a>, by Israel Galindo. See the new Perspectives on Congregational Leadership blog<\/a> site.<\/p>\n
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