On Fundamental Limits Of Variation In Family Systems: Logical Extensions To The Theory of Family Paradigms

TLDR: TIrc theoretical linits to vaiation in the organizational and interactional premises of family systems are investigated and it is concluded that only a finite seies of fundamentally distinct family paradigms are needed to close the seies and account for alt possible mechanisms of regulation.

Abstract: TIrc theoretical linits to vaiation in the organizational and interactional premises of family systems are investigated. A formal logic is.applied to tJrc'elementary requiieients of hrunan systems in the abstract, independentof empiical issuis. This teads b tlrc conclusion that, with reasonable restrictions on'tlrc dontain of application, only a finite seies of fundamentally distinct family paradigms are psts;6t.. Beyond-the four uaiants previously recognized (closed" 'randoh, open, and synclronous), ai additional regime, representing a syntlt.sis of "open" ind "syncironous" systems,,is hypothesize-d asnecessary and nfficient to close the seies and account for alt possible mechanisms of regulation' Some characteistic features of tltk fonn of systemic organization and operation have been deived.