The thrilling and dizzying challenge of learning to think systemically—of learning to recognize and appreciate interactive processes and recursive patterns of relationship within couples, families, and therapeutic systems—requires a fundamental revisioning and reworking of long-held philosophical and psychological assumptions. In this streamlined yet comprehensive book, Drs. Ray and Dorothy Becvar, joined in this 4th edition by Dorothy’s daughter, Lynne Reif, provide a state-of-the-art launching pad and high-resolution map for the uninitiated, the curious, and the confused. Head inside, buckle up, and blast off! The authors will help you get oriented and find your way.

Douglas Flemons, PhD, LMFT, professor emeritus, Nova Southeastern University; author of Completing Distinctions, Of One Mind, and The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy

In reading this new edition, I can hear Ray and Dorothy’s voices and feel their loving warmth. The first edition was foundational for learning about family systems and the new edition continues to evoke their magical gift with language. Easy to read with many stories and examples, their book (with the addition of Lynne Reif) continues to provide a map and feast for students learning about family therapy and systems theory.

Jerry Gale, PhD, LMFT, emeritus professor, Human Development and Family Science, University of Georgia; former student of Dorothy Stroh and Raphael J. Becvar

This book contains essential knowledge about systems theory with clear, concise, and understandable descriptions of concepts. It is an invaluable resource combining ideas and knowledge across family therapy to teach professionals how to pragmatically integrate complex systemic concepts in their clinical thinking and practice. I highly recommend this text.

Bethany Simmons, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC, California Lutheran University

Systems theory is the bedrock of all family therapists do. Yet, it is not uncommon for some to have only a superficial understanding. This book highlights the core tenets of systems theory and brings to life its implications for family therapists.

Ryan Seedall, Utah State University; associate co-editor, The Handbook of Systemic Family Therapy; co-author, Deliberate Practice in Systemic Family Therapy

A solid, clear and accessible systems text is foundational to teaching marriage, couple and family students. The cybernetics, first and second order material is essential. This is a key text students would read that builds their foundation for learning and understanding concepts before learning specific models and theories applicable to clinical work.

Kristin Mouttet, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, Messiah University

Like any behavior, the discipline of systemic thinking cannot be maintained in isolation. Hence, I cannot imagine sustaining an authentically systemic practice without regular revisits to this primer, which continually redirects me to the countercultural, unsettling, and inspiring essence of systems theory.

Aaron Cohn, PhD, LMFT, The Family Institute, Northwestern University