Family therapy is multi-dimensional and calls for moral and ethical principles for social wellbeing. In many cases, a family therapist may be so focused on defending their client that they forget to maintain a relativistic worldview. Nichols and Davis (2020) point out that family therapists should strike a “link” between change and stability for sustainable development (175). While advocating for self-determination and protection, therapists can apply cultural competence to ensure they maintain a relativistic worldview on human safety and values. Cultural competence requires that family therapists aspire to know how different cultures view human values and promote cohesion rather than create segregation.
Battering and violence in families is a significant issue of concern that family therapists need to address. The approach taken to “address the suspected batterer” significantly affects the outcomes (Nichols & Davis, 2020, p. 23). The batterer should feel be convinced of his destructive conduct without being condemned or belittled. This can be effectively done by first showing empathy and understanding by appealing to the batterer’s emotions. One can begin by showing the individual they understand there is a reason behind their violent behavior. This way, the batterer may be prompted to change and develop compassion for the victims of their violent behavior.
The Christian ministry fits into family therapy as it helps individuals resolve family conflicts amicably while focusing on the life of Jesus. In the Christian worldview, love, compassion, and forgiveness are the “key foundations” of social wellbeing (Yarhouse & Sells, 2017, p. 12). When resolving conflicts, therapists can use the Christian teachings to promote forgiveness as advocated by Jesus’ death on the cross. Consequently, family members would be willing to resolve any differences among them since they can understand that everybody makes mistakes and all should be forgiven and forgotten.
References
Nichols, M.P. & Davis, S. D. (2020). The essentials of family therapy (7th ed.). Pearson Education.
Yarhouse, M. A., & Sells, J. N. (2017). Family therapies: A comprehensive Christian appraisal (2nd ed.). Intervarsity Press.