Effect of Illness On Couples Relationship

1
Effect of Illness On CouplesRelationship
2
Key Issues for Couples

• Framing
• whos problem is it?
• Affirming Versus Destructive Narratives

3
Distance Regulation

• Cohesion
• connectedness/separateness
• enmeshed/disengaged
• Sexuality

4
Boundary Issues

• Permeable Barrier
• Physical boundaries
• Temporal boundaries
• Symbolic boundaries

5
Boundary Issues

• Breaching
• by caregivers
• by the disability
• Generational Boundaries
• Externalization
• as technique
• (White Epston)

6
Other Systemic Issues

• Communication
• Ability to express pain, anger
• survivor guilt
• Grieving and loss
• Stages of adjustment (DABDA)
• Gender and caregiver issues
• Life cycle challenges

7
Family Systems Response To A Child With A
Disability
8
Positive Family Outcomes

• Distinct boundaries
• Realistic/cooperative attitude toward treatment
• resource acquisition
• Positive appraisal
• Low marital conflict
• family tension management
• Strong social support

9
Child Positive Outcomes

• Self sufficient
• Able to express feelings

10
Dysfunctional Families

• Diminished functioning
• Lower expectations
• View child as disabled
• System uses child to maintain homeostasis