Family relationships can be extremely complex. Each family has its unique philosophy and way of doing things. Despite the notable differences, many theorists believe that families fall into one model of an emotional system. As such, this breeds a concept known as the Family Systems Theory. The theoretical concept behind the family systems theory is the creation of a cohesive emotional unit (Rabstejnek, 2012). The approach was developed by a psychiatrist known as Murray Bowen with an emphasis that family members are uniquely bonded with strong emotions. The theory further outlines the roles of the family members where each member is required to fulfill a particular duty and follow specific rules. Therefore, family members have an obligation to interact and respond in certain ways regarded as conventional. The story revealed in “Dear Evan Hansen” depicts various family interactions that are consistent with the provisions of the family systems theory. In many cases, the audience perceives various connections and disconnections common in many families across the world. The character of Connor Murphy in “Dear Evan Hansen” shows the emotional attachment that family members can have even in periods of gross disconnection.
As earlier mentioned, each member of a family has a particular role to play. More significantly, they are bounded by specific rules which they must endeavor to follow. In this regard, they must respond to one another in a particular way determined by their role and the relationship agreements. Dr. Bowen, a major contributor to the theory, opined that "even when people may feel they are disconnected from members of their family, the family still has a profound impact on their emotions and actions-weather positive or negative" (Haefner, 2014). The change in the behavior of one person has a significant impact on that of others. It, therefore, shows that family members are emotionally connected, and their interdependence continues both in times of joy and sorrow. Connor Murphy is one of the main characters in "Dear Evan Hansen." He is primarily portrayed as cruel, violent, angry, suicidal, a loner, and a bully. Therefore, he portrays all the negative characteristics that are capable of destroying the social and emotional ties seen in a family. However, the fact that his family continues to accommodate him shows a relationship that goes beyond physical relations. The rest of his family become tolerant of his antics due to the emotional connection discussed in family systems theory.
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According to Dr. Bowen, the interdependence witnessed in families is essential to ensure that they can meet certain basic needs such as shelter and protection. However, he also states that "the anxiety that one person feels can spread among family members and the interdependence becomes emotionally taxing rather than comforting" (Family Systems Theory Definition & What Is It?). Therefore, it remains fundamental to appreciate that the emotional investment explained in the family systems theory can apply in times of happiness or sadness. Connor Murphy has a strained relationship with his sister Zoe. The sister further asserts that Connor had threatened her life on more than one occasion. Connor was a certified psychopath and sociopath who would have easily made his threats true as regards to killing his sister. The fact that he does not do so shows that he respects the emotional bond between the two and the role that each of them has in the family. Dr. Bowen goes ahead to note that "there will always be one person in the family unit who absorbs the bulk of other members of the family" (Family Systems Theory Definition & What Is It?). Cynthia Murphy, Connor's mother, plays this critical role. She does everything possible to ensure that the family remains intact even if it is at the expense of her own welfare.
The family systems theory draws its strength from interdependence. It is only when each member identifies and plays their role well that success will eventually come. The family in which Connor comes from can be identified as a triangle because it is small and composed of three pillars including the two parents and the children. The family systems theory opines that whenever conflict arises between two individuals in the triangle, then tension elevates causing one person to act like an outsider. Connor Murphy is a prime example of an outsider due to his loner characters. He has a conflict with his sister and therefore decides to break the triangle and remain outside. More importantly, the family systems theory asserts that a family can only function properly if every member respects and meets their demands in the family. Some of the problems that the family can experience include marital conflict, impairment of children, emotional distance, and a dysfunction in one of the spouses (Titelman, 2014). Therefore, any of these factors can cause a family to break down. The problems with Connor Murphy can be associated with distant and busy father who has robbed them emotional support.
In conclusion, the family systems theory explains the emotional attachment characteristic of many families across the world. It further states that family members have vital roles to play and rules to follow in a bid to fulfill the much-needed interdependence. The character of Connor Murphy in "Dear Evan Hansen" shows the emotional attachment that family members can have even in periods of gross disconnection. Through his character, the audience can understand various family dynamics and factors that jeopardize the realization of family unity and cohesion. The theory also provides a rationale for which families can conflict or crumble as seen in the case of Connor and his parents.
References
Family Systems Theory Definition & What Is It? https://www.regain.us/advice/family/family-systems-theory-definition-what-is-it/
Haefner, J. (2014). An application of Bowen family systems theory. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 35(11), 835-841.
Rabstejnek, C. V. (2012). Family systems & Murray Bowen theory. Retrieved from. http://www.houd.info/bowenTheory.pdf
Titelman, P. (2014). Clinical applications of Bowen family systems theory. Routledge.
