Turn any Relationship into an Extraordinary Relationship "A refreshing alternative to common self-help approaches." --Michael E. Kerr, M.D., Direct...
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Apr 18, 2008
Danielle
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This book gives an explanation of Bowen's family system theory. The first half of the book is heavy on the theory, and then the second half gets into a little bit of how to use it in real life. It doesn't read like a self-help book, and Gilbert gets props for not using words like "codependence" and other jingoistic psychobabbly words. She's completely blunt and realistic, and it's all well-written.
The basic theory is this: in order to have good relationships, you have More...
The basic theory is this: in order to have good relationships, you have More...
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Sep 23, 2007
Alison
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This is an incredible book! The publishers put on a silly cover and made it sound like a dull self-help nightmare, but really it's an accessible explanation of Bowen's Multigenerational Family Systems Theory, which is by far the best counseling theory I've come across. Most theories tell you to look deeper to understand the self. This says to take many steps back, instead, to look at patterns in your family for at least 3 generations. When you do this several clear patterns emerge that are b
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Jun 03, 2010
Scott
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This practical guide to Bowen Family Systems, also explains the theory for personal use, both individually and with groups. Though the emphasis seems to be on pairings the exploration of parallels between family or origin and ongoing relationships is well explained and accessible.
Dec 10, 2011
Bikewriter
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An interesting read from a social/psychological viewpoint -- not "pleasure reading" per se. But the presentation is accessible, informational, helpful and worth the effort. Helps to see relationships from a new perspective, to understand the underpinnings of how we approach, enter, and handle relationships based on our inner selves.
Jun 22, 2010
Dj
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A nice primer of sorts (Bowen theory) toward building healthier and/or supporting family relationships
Feb 26, 2008
Ruth
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Hopefully this is the only self-help book I will ever review! I just have to share it though!
This book sums up Bowen Family Theory, which basically is about having a sence of self (or not) and how that affects every relationship in one's life. It is short, cuts right to the chase, and has been extremely helpful to me in recognizing ways I still sometimes relate to people in the way I was trained in childhood so I can snap out of it and be my real self!
This book sums up Bowen Family Theory, which basically is about having a sence of self (or not) and how that affects every relationship in one's life. It is short, cuts right to the chase, and has been extremely helpful to me in recognizing ways I still sometimes relate to people in the way I was trained in childhood so I can snap out of it and be my real self!
Jan 31, 2012
I have been in Dr. Gilbert's seminar on LEADERSHIP for three years. The theory of Murray Bowen MD is powerful enough to change any life or life situation regardless who it is and what situation they are in. It has given me better relationsips and LEADERSHIP POSITIONS in my vocation that ANYTHING I HAVE EVER BEEN IN! Read this book !!
Dec 08, 2008
Afsaneh
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One of those books one should re-read to keep perspective about all kinds of relationships (family, romantic, work, etc) and re-aligning one's own expectations in each of those relationships. The provided case studies make it easy to relate to the situations and how they may fit your own life.
Jan 08, 2011
Ilya
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The book provides a family therapist's perspective on relationships. It walks through concepts like differentiation of self, dealing with various negative relationship patterns. A very useful read, with a good bunch of ideas to try out.
Jul 25, 2008
Ab
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I think this book really helps cut through a lot of crap and improve relationships.
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