What does "family confluence" refer to in family therapy?

"Family confluence" refers to the blending of emotions, thoughts, and opinions among family members. This concept is vital in family therapy, as it emphasizes how family members are interconnected and how their emotional experiences can merge, leading to either harmony or conflict within the family system.

In practice, acknowledging family confluence can help therapists identify areas where communication may be strained or where misunderstandings arise due to the overlapping feelings and perceptions among family members. By understanding this blending, therapists can guide families towards healthier dynamics, improving emotional regulation and communication.

Understanding family confluence is essential for therapists working with families, as it allows them to address the root causes of issues that stem from this emotional blending, facilitating a more effective therapeutic process.