The couple and family map is an important tool that provides couples with a simple representation of how they perceive their relationship. The two main concepts in the map are closeness and flexibility. Closeness can be defined as the emotional relationship between a couple or family members (Brown, 2021, page 2). On the other hand, flexibility can be defined as the level of change in role management and relationships. Change, leadership role sharing, and discipline are the specific principles meant to assess flexibility. Therefore, closeness and flexibility are important concepts in the map and can describe the relationship between Rick and Louann.
Closeness can be used to show whether Rick and Louann have marital problems and are disconnected or not. A disconnected couple tends to do their things and have issues during decision-making to remain in the marriage (Hurless & Cottone, 2018). When the cohesion levels are very low, there is no emotional closeness and high independence. For example, Rick is pleased with their sex and affection and how they address sexual concerns. On the other hand, Louann is displeased with their sex and may be concerned about how they handle sexual problems. In addition, Louann is concerned about how the partner handles money in financial management, while Rick is not concerned. As a result, using this concept, there are a lot of things that can be used to describe the relationship in the family.
Flexibility majors on how the systems balance stability and change. Balanced levels of flexibility are more conducive for proper family functioning. A very flexible family is one that shares leadership and rules (Olson, 1999). Based on this, Rick and Louann can be described as a very flexible family. They are both generally satisfied with how duties and responsibilities are handled in their relationship, but they may be aware of one or two concerns that require addressing. They are both happy with the flexibility they have with roles and responsibilities. The family is also considered very flexible is because they agree that they effectively adjust to changes in roles and responsibilities. This means they can shift their roles to meet the family’s needs. For example, the husband can cook for the family when the wife is busy. Thus, flexibility is an important concept because it shows how connected is the family.
Moreover, the family is described as flexible because they have a good balance of stability and change. In the case study, Rick claims that their relationship is flexible, with the right balance of constancy and change. They frequently share decision-making and may adapt to changing circumstances. Most couples do well with this amount of adaptability. On the other hand, according to Louann, the relationship is adaptable. Flexible relationships are those that have an effective balance of stability and change. Decision-making in various areas is distributed evenly, and tasks can be shifted to match the needs of daily life. As a result, the couples find their relationship a healthy balance.
Family flexibility is also an important concept described as the ability of a family to adjust to changes in roles, leadership, and discipline is defined as family flexibility. Family relationships can range from rigid to extremely fluid or chaotic on the map (Olson, 1999). Both individuals grew up in families that were rigid. They come from rigid and resistant families to changes in leadership, duties, and practices. The families also struggle to respond to stress and discover new strategies to deal with problems.
References
Brown, C. (2021). Using the Couple and Family Maps. Prepare-Enrich India. Web.
Hurless, N., & Cottone, R. R. (2018). Considerations of conjoint couples therapy in cases of intimate partner violence. The Family Journal, 26(3), 324-329. Web.
Olson, D. H. (1999). Circumflex model of marital and family systems: An update. Journal of Family Theory & Review, 1-22. Web.