In this episode of Lone Star Life Lessons, we take a closer look at Conflict Theory and how it shapes family dynamics. From power struggles to emotional intelligence, we’ll break down the key elements that influence everyday conflicts. You’ll also hear about different conflict styles, the importance of understanding triggers, and how Emotional Intelligence and Empathy can shift conflict from a battle to an opportunity for growth. With real-world examples and practical takeaways, this episode will help you better manage conflict in your own relationships while honoring everyone’s needs. Plus, there’s a simple exercise to try out with your family!

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. If you or someone you know needs support, please seek the help of a licensed therapist.

Sources

• Coser, L. A. (1956). The Functions of Social Conflict. Free Press.

• Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books.

• Smith, S. R., & Hamon, R. R. (2022). Exploring Family Theories (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.

• Sprey, J. (1969). The Family as a System in Conflict. Journal of Marriage and Family, 31(4), 699-706.

• Weber, M. (1947). The Theory of Social and Economic Organization. Oxford University Press.

Chapters

(00:13) Opening

(01:27) How It All Began & The People Behind the Theory

(03:25) Conflict Styles

(05:57) Emotional Intelligence & Empathy

(07:42) RICE Model

(10:52) Terms You Need to Know

(13:28) Common Misconceptions

(16:27) Cultural Considerations

(19:53) Challenges

(23:11) Therapy Scenario

(27:06) Practice Make Progress

(29:39) Closing

In this episode of Lone Star Life Lessons, we take a closer look at Symbolic Interactionism and explore how our interactions create meaning in our everyday lives. From family rituals to nonverbal communication, we’ll uncover how symbols shape our relationships and identities. You’ll also hear about common misconceptions, cultural influences, and the challenges that arise when meanings shift over time. Plus, there’s a simple exercise to try out with your family!

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. If you or someone you know needs support, please seek the help of a licensed therapist.

Sources

• Blumer, H. (1969). Symbolic Interactionism: Perspective and Method. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.
• Cooley, C. H. (1956). Social Organization: A Study of the Larger Mind. Free Press.
• Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Doubleday.
• Mead, G. H. (1934/1956). Mind, Self, and Society: From the Standpoint of a Social Behaviorist. University of Chicago Press.
• Smith, S. R., & Hamon, R. R. (2022). Exploring Family Theories (5th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Chapters

(00:13) Opening

(01:20) How It All Began & The People Behind the Theory

(03:07) Overarching Themes

(05:03) Terms You Need to Know

(07:21) Common Misconceptions

(10:08) Cultural Considerations

(12:53) Challenges

(15:45) Therapy Scenario

(17:54) Practice Make Progress

(19:48) Closing

In this episode of Lone Star Life Lessons, we take a closer look at Family Systems Theory, which helps us understand how families work as connected systems. We’ll talk about important ideas like family communication, balance, and how everyone’s actions affect each other. You’ll also hear real-life examples and learn how culture plays a role in family dynamics. Plus, there’s a simple exercise to try out with your own family!

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. If you or someone you know needs support, please seek the help of a licensed therapist.

Sources

• Olson, D. H. (2000). Circumplex Model of Marital and Family Systems. Journal of Family Therapy, 22(2), 144-167. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-6427.00144​:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
• Keeney, B. P. & Thomas, F. N. (1986). Cybernetic Foundations of Family Therapy. In F. P. Piercy & D. H. Sprenkle (Eds.), Family Therapy Sourcebook (pp. 262-287). The Guilford Press
• Nichols, M. P. (2014). The Essentials of Family Therapy (6th ed., pp. 49-68). Pearson​
• Simon, F. B., Stierlin, H., & Wynne, L. C. (1985). The Language of Family Therapy: A Systemic Vocabulary and Sourcebook. Family Process Press​
• Smith, S. R., & Hamon, R. R. (2022). Exploring Family Theories (5th ed.). Oxford University Press
• Skyttner, L. (2005). General Systems Theory: Problems, Perspectives, Practice (2nd ed.). World Scientific​

Chapters

(00:13) Opening

(02:04) How It All Began & The People Behind the Theory

(03:58) Ways We See the World

(06:18) The Circumplex Model

(09:17) The Cybernetic Model

(12:32) Terms You Need to Know

(16:11) Common Misconceptions

(18:51) Cultural Considerations

(22:00) Challenges

(24:58) Therapy Scenario

(28:20) Practice Make Progress

(30:44) Closing

In this first episode of Lone Star Life Lessons, we take a closer look at the foundational concepts that guide family therapy. We’ll explore what theory is and why it’s essential for understanding family dynamics and break down key terms you’ll hear throughout the series. Whether you’re a student, therapist, or curious about how families work, this episode sets the stage for the journey ahead.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. If you or someone you know needs support, please seek the help of a licensed therapist.

Sources

• Blow, A. J., & Sprenkle, D. H. (2001). Common factors across theories of marriage and family therapy: A modified Delphi study. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 27(3), 385-401.
• Smith, S. R., & Hamon, R. R. (2022). Exploring Family Theories (5th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Bengtson, V. L., Acock, A. C., Allen, K. R., Dilworth-Anderson, P., & Klein, D. M. (2005). Sourcebook of Family Theory and Research. SAGE
• VanOrman, A. G., & Scommegna, P. (2016). Understanding the dynamics of family change in the United States. Population Bulletin, 71(1), 1-18.
• Morrison, R. F. (2000). A Century of the American Family. In S. N. Katz, J. Eekelaar, & M. Maclean (Eds.), Cross Currents: Family Law and Policy in the US and England (pp. 45-72). Oxford University Press.

Chapters (00:13) Welcome (01:22) What is Theory? (02:32) Functions of Theory (04:53) Common Misconceptions (06:55) Common Factors (08:56) What Makes a Family? (10:17) Terms You Need to Know (12:51) Practice Makes Progress (14:21) Closing