Observing systems and psychotherapy: what I owe to Heinz von Foerster

Abstract

Purpose

To consider how the approach and work of Heinz von Foerster, among others, can aid psychotherapists.

Design/methodology/approach

A family therapist, as every therapist, is caught in the dilemma that (s)he cannot separate what (s)he sees from who (s)he is. One possibility to understand what happens in a therapeutic system is by means of the model of resonance. The therapist observes himself or herself and regards these thoughts and emotions as part of the therapeutic system. (S)he takes part in the reciprocal double binds, i.e. the strategy how each member of a human system s(he) is part of is protecting the worldview of the others by acting in a way, which is reinforcing their worldviews. Thus, a homeostasis is maintained.

Findings

Proposes a new systemic approach closer to Ilya Prigogine's work on systems far from equilibrium where chance plays a role helping members of human systems to leave a world of predictability and to enter a universe of freedom and responsibility. Also uses the teachings of Heinz von Foerster about being part of the world and not separated observers. The viewpoint of constructed realities entails freedom and responsibility and is a highly ethical position.

Originality/value

Provides help in understanding how the teachings of Heinz von Foerster, among others, can aid psychotherapists.

Citation

Elkaïm, M. (2005), "Observing systems and psychotherapy: what I owe to Heinz von Foerster", Kybernetes, Vol. 34 No. 3/4, pp. 385-392. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684920510581567