vcc.ca
CNSK 1504: Introduction to Family Systems
Effective date
January 2024
Department
Counselling Skills
School
Continuing Studies
Description
This course introduces students to systems theory as a framework to understand and support complex and diverse families.
Credits
2.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Recognize various pathways of human development in the context of families
- Identify core features of developmental and intergenerational trauma
- Reflect on own developmental path and family dynamics in the context of their practice
- Apply a Family Systems approach to understand diverse families
- Observe and identify verbal and non-verbal communication patterns in interpersonal and family context
- Discuss the effects of addiction on the family and family dynamics
- Discuss appropriate counselling techniques and other interventions in the family context
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
PLAR will be assessed by the Department according to standardized practice and using one or more of the following components: Challenge Exam, Demonstration, Interview, or External Evaluation.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 36
Total Hours: 36
Total Hours: 36
Instructional Strategies
Lecture, videos, group discussion/work, reflective writing and assignments, readings, peer and instructor feedback
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
30 |
Genogram |
|
Assignments |
20 |
Case studies, observations, written report(s) |
|
Exam |
25 |
In-class or take-home |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
15 |
In-class or take-home |
|
Participation |
10 |
Professionalism and participation |
Course topics
- • Introduction to Family Systems • Affect Theory as an approach to Family Systems • Attachment and Family Systems • Multigenerational transmission of trauma • Power, privilege and marginalization • Introduction to contemporary Family Systems frameworks and practices • Applied ethics in Family Systems • Addiction and the Family System
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.