Application of Systems Theory to a Case Study
According to Bertalanffy’s general systems theory, a system is comprised of small subsystems that have an influence on each other. These systems seek homeostasis in order to achieve a state of equilibrium. Lack of equilibrium results in dysfunctions in the system (Drack & Schwarz, 2010). The theory further explains that an individual’s behavior is influenced by many factors that work together, just like systems do. An individual’s friends, parents, children’s work environment, home environment, and school environment determine thoughts, feelings, and acts. An individual who engages in risky behavior is likely to be part of an ineffective system, while an individual who has good behavior is likely to be part of a functioning and effective system (Drack & Pouvreau, 2015). In the case of Helen Petrakis, her feeling of being overwhelmed is a result of ineffectiveness in her family system.
Helen has too many responsibilities and no one to help her carry out these responsibilities. Although all her children are aged 18 and above, she is still responsible for most of the family. She still cooks and cleans for her family and also has to take care of her sick mother-in-law. She has a fear of failing in her responsibilities because, as a traditional Greek, she believes that it is the role of the woman to maintain the family system just like her mother did. As a child, Helen was scared of disappointing her mother; hence, she was forced to take care of her siblings, and this extended into adulthood. Helen’s family does not help her with any responsibilities; hence, the family system is ineffective. If they decided to chip in and help Helen, then she would no longer be overwhelmed by her responsibilities.
References
Drack, M., & Pouvreau, D. (2015). On the history of Ludwig von Bertalanffy’s “General Systemology”, and on its relationship to cybernetics – part III: convergences and divergences. International Journal of General Systems, 44(5), 523-571. doi: 10.1080/03081079.2014.1000642
Drack, M., & Schwarz, G. (2010). Recent developments in general system theory. Systems Research and Behavioral Science, 27(6), 601-610. doi: 10.1002/sres.1013
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Question 
In this course, you will be asked to select one case study and use it throughout the entire course. By doing this, you will have the opportunity to see how theories guide your view of a client and the client’s presenting problem. Although the case may be the same, each time you use a different theory, your perspective of the problem changes, which then changes how you go about asking the assessment questions and how you intervene.
Application of Systems Theory to a Case Study
The first theoretical approach you will use to apply to a case study is systems theory. In other words, your theoretical orientation—your lens—will be systems theory as you analyze a social work case study.
Different theories can be used to take a systems approach. For example, Bertalanffy’s General Systems Theory considers how a system is made of smaller subsystems that influence each other and seek homeostasis, whereas Brofennerbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory focuses on how an individual’s experience is influenced by different system levels (micro, meso, exo, macro, and chronic). Systems theory is commonly used to understand the interrelationships of the systems (e.g., family, community, organizations, society) of the client. If you are working with families, communities, and organizations, it is also beneficial to use systems theory to get a holistic picture of all the interrelated parts of the system.
To prepare: Select and focus on one of four case studies listed in the Learning Resources. You will use this same case study throughout the course.