Interactional View Theory

Interactional View Theory

Example: Each Family Member Takes on a Role That Serves the Status Quo

Problem, Enabler, Deny-er, Hero...Which One Are You?

The example of each family member taking a role that serves the status quo supports the Interactional View Theory.  Paul Watzlawick's goal for this theory was to gain insight into healthy communication by looking at dysfunctional families.  An important point to make is that every family in the world, whether rich or poor, small or big, miles apart or everyone under one roof has its problems that make it dysfunctional.  The roles in which each family member plays makes up the status quo of the family.  Another point to make is that each of us delegates a role (ourselves included) to the other family members.  The ironic part about doing that is that each of us serve different roles in the other's minds.  Usually if you believe another family member is the problem, they label you the problem in their labeling of the family roles.  Family is a very important!  Being able to communicate positively in a family is hard work, but we should always strive for excellence and limit the dysfunctional moments to a minimum.

While researching this theory I learned a lot of information about how families work and ways to change communication patterns that will allow for healthy communication to develop amongst family members.  The biggest thing I take away from the Interactional View Theory that will help improve my communication skills would be reframing myself and my role in my family.  I see myself as the hero a lot because I believe that I am better an what I really am.  That is a pride issue and pride is a huge factor in families.  Nobody wants to admit that they are the problem.  Instead, we (myself included) try to hide our flaws and imperfections by pushing the blame on others family members.  I have learned to reframe myself in a way that mirrors and reflects Biblical values and honors God.  This chapter was a good reminder to always remember to be that light shining for God.  I believe that if I work on reframing myself to look like this, my communication with my family will get better and our family communication as a whole will improve and be healthy.  After all, each family member has to admit that they have flaws (lose the pride) and work on reframing themselves in order for the entire to begin to have healthy communication.