New Trends in Psychology

Integrating Classical Systemic Theories with Postmodern Perspectives in Family Psychotherapy: A Critical Analysis of Contemporary Clinical Utility

Nicu-Ionel Sava, Brigitte Popa — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This article explores the integration of classical systemic theories with postmodern approaches in contemporary family psychotherapy, with the aim of evaluating the conceptual coherence and clinical utility of integrative models. Recent literature highlights a growing shift toward hybrid systemic frameworks that combine structural foundations with constructivist, narrative, and collaborative perspectives. Drawing on a conceptual comparative analysis between Minuchin’s structural model and postmodern approaches, this paper examines how integrative practices can enhance therapeutic effectiveness. The findings indicate that while classical systemic concepts remain essential for assessment and relational organization, postmodern techniques contribute significantly to client engagement, reflexivity, and meaning-making. Integrative models appear particularly well suited to addressing the complexity and diversity of contemporary family contexts, offering clinicians a flexible and context-responsive framework. The article contributes a theoretically grounded yet pragmatically oriented perspective, supporting the development of coherent hybrid approaches in family psychotherapy.

The Role of Family Dynamics and Transgenerational Processes in the Development and Maintenance of Addictive Behaviors: Implications for Systemic Psychotherapeutic Intervention

Nicu-Ionel Sava, Aura-Brigitte Popa, Mihaela-Cătălina Dolea — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Addictive behaviors have long been conceptualized as individual disorders primarily grounded in neurobiological vulnerability or maladaptive personality traits. Increasingly, however, systemic perspectives emphasize the relational and developmental contexts in which addiction emerges and is maintained. This article proposes an integrative systemic framework that conceptualizes addictive behavior as a relationally embedded and transgenerational phenomenon, shaped by family dynamics and intergenerational patterns. Drawing on systemic family therapy models—including Bowenian, contextual, structural, and narrative approaches—the paper explores how processes such as triangulation, emotional cutoff, rigid family roles, and transgenerational loyalties may contribute to the persistence of addiction. At the same time, family resources and resilience are examined as central elements in recovery and therapeutic change. The article discusses clinical implications for systemic assessment and intervention, highlighting the importance of multigenerational perspectives, relational safety, and ethical sensitivity in promoting sustainable recovery. By reframing addiction as a systemic and transgenerational issue, this contribution supports psychotherapeutic approaches that prioritize relational change and family engagement in the treatment of addictive behaviors.

Assessing Relational Functioning in Couple and Family Therapy: A Comparative Analysis of Systemic Assessment Instruments in Psychotherapeutic Practice

Nicu-Ionel Sava, Ioana Diana Moldovanu, Brigitte Boboc — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Assessing relational functioning is a core component of both clinical practice and research in couple and family therapy. Within systemic psychotherapy, assessment is understood as a theory-driven process that actively shapes clinical understanding, hypothesis formulation, and intervention planning. Despite the widespread use of systemic assessment instruments, considerable variability persists in their epistemological assumptions, methodological structure, and clinical utility. This article presents a comparative analysis of four widely used systemic tools—the genogram, the Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation (FIRO) model, the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), and the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales (FACES)—focusing on how each conceptualizes relational functioning and informs systemic case formulation. The analysis examines theoretical coherence, methodological characteristics, and the capacity of these instruments to capture dynamic and reciprocal relational processes. Findings suggest that no single instrument adequately reflects the complexity of couple and family relationships. Qualitative tools provide contextual and transgenerational depth, while standardized measures offer structural clarity and comparative rigor. Their integrative use supports more coherent clinical formulation and evidence-informed systemic practice.