Punctuation in Family Systems Theory

Name of Intervention

Punctuation

Synonyms

Reframing

Introduction

Punctuation is a method of reconceptualizing a series of events in a linear manner (i.e., one event causes another) when the events are in fact arranged in a circular manner (i.e., events mutually influence one another). Watzlawick et al. (1967) saw punctuation as a vital tool for organizing ongoing interactions. In this way, punctuation simplifies a complex web of interactions. Punctuation can be useful in therapy when a therapist utilizes it to examine individual steps in a conflict cycle (e.g., “Tell me what happens after you get angry”). Yet, it can also create conflict when clients punctuate a series of events at different points, allowing them to blame one another for the struggles they are facing. For example, when a couple argues about who started a fight, it is often because each partner has punctuated a series of events at different places.

Theoretical Framework

As an intervention, punctuation has its...