About Bowen Theory

Bowen Family Systems Theory, developed by Dr. Murray Bowen in the 1950’s, is a new way of thinking about the human phenomenon. In it, the nuclear family rather than the individual is seen as the emotional unit. Several concepts grow out of that basic understanding, including among others, the scale of differentiation of self, emotional cutoff and the importance of the generations to functioning of people in the present.

The tremendous usefulness of the theory in the lives of individuals and families gave rise to a new and more effective psychotherapy. Organizations such as businesses and congregations have used the ideas with great benefit. Leadership training based on Bowen theory is proving to have effectiveness for those in religious, business, education and other types of organizations.