Applying Bowen’s Theory to Intern Supervision

The aim of this paper is to theoretically apply Bowen’s understanding of triangulation and triads to school psychology intern supervision so that it can assist in the conceptualization of the dynamics of intern supervision and provide some key methods to address common issues. The school psychology internship is the capstone experience for the school psychologist in training. It involves three key participants whose relationships will determine the success of the internship.  To understand the potential effect, Bowen’s family systems theory can be applied to the supervision relationship. He describes a way to resolve stress between two people by triangulating or binging in a third person. He applies this to a nuclear family, but school psychology intern supervision requires the marriage of an intern, field supervisor, and university supervisor; thus, setting all up for possible triangulation. The consequences of triangulation can apply to standards and requirements, direct supervision, and intern evaluation. Strategies from family systems theory to decrease the negative impact of supervision triangulation.

Authors:

• Jeff A. Tysinger
• Dawn P. Tysinger

Keywords:

• Family systems theory
• intern supervision
• triangulation
• school psychology.

References:

[1] Bowen, M. (1976). Theory in the practice of psychotherapy. In P. J. Guerin, Jr. (Ed.), Family therapy: Theory and practice (pp.42-90). New York, NY: Garner Press.
[2] Bowen, M. (1978). Family therapy in clinical practice. New York, NY: Jason Aronson.
[3] Harvey, V. S. & Struzziero, J. A. (2008). Professional Development and Supervision of school psychologists: From Intern to Expert (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press & NASP.
[4] Kadushin, A. (1968). Games people play in supervision. Social Work. 13(3), 23-32.
[5] Kadushin, A. (1976). Supervision in social work. New York, NY: Columbia University Press.
[6] Kerr, M. & Bowen, M. (1988). Family Evaluation: An approach based on Bowen theory. New York, NY: W. W. Norton & Company.
[7] Peterson, D. W. (1981) Games in school psychology supervision. School Psychology Review. 10(4), 445-451.
[8] Zuk, G. H. (1981). Family therapy: A triadic based approach (Rev. ed.). New York: Hyman Sciences Press.