A clarification of Multisystem-Multimethod assessment: reductionism versus wholism

Fam Process. 1983 Jun;22(2):173-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1545-5300.1983.00173.x.

Abstract

A clarification and response to a critique of the Multisystem-Multimethod (MS-MM) family assessment is provided in this paper. This approach consists of a logic for integrating family assessment, systems thinking, and clinical interventions. In contrast to the wholistic, or systemic, focus of MS-MM family assessment, the critique of these procedures recommends a more reductionistic approach that contradicts basic elements of systems theory. The critique advocates the isolation and measurement of a few family phenomena, whereas MS-MM assessment recognizes the interdependence among the levels of organization and components of family systems.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Family Therapy*
  • Family*
  • Humans
  • MMPI
  • Psychological Tests*
  • Rorschach Test
  • Thematic Apperception Test