Balancing bytes and bonds: Case studies in systemic approaches to digital dynamics in diverse family systems.

  • Published In: Australian & New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy, 2025, v. 46, n. 1. P. 1 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Lockhart, Ezra N. S. 3 of 3

Abstract

Digital technology profoundly impacts family dynamics, posing challenges for therapists. This article explores how excessive technology use affects family interactions, illustrated through three case studies. The aim is to highlight the implications of overuse rather than the inherent properties of technology. Using Bowen family systems therapy and socioculturally attuned family therapy, a blending of these systemic approaches, the therapist designed targeted interventions to address excessive technology use within diverse family systems. Interventions shifted pre‐intervention attitudes and technology‐related beliefs, where family members viewed technology as either a source of conflict or an integral part of daily life. Six 90‐minute family therapy sessions were conducted where families, with varied pre‐intervention perspectives on technology, transitioned towards technology moderation, fostering digital mindfulness and offline family activities. Understanding and addressing the interplay between technology and family dynamics are crucial. Cultural considerations and sensitivity towards generational, ethnic and technological cultural differences were emphasised. An immigrant family and their first‐generation American children exemplify the intersection of cultural identity, generational technology gap and technology integration, advocating for socioculturally attuned therapeutic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Australian & New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy. 2025/03, Vol. 46, Issue 1, p1
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Health and Medicine
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0814-723X
  • DOI:10.1002/anzf.1606
  • Accession Number:183858163
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Australian & New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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