Emotional Projection Process:
Challenges in Applying Bowen Family Systems Theory
45th Pittsburgh Family Systems Conference and Symposium
Friday, September 13th – 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday, September 14th – 8:30AM – 4:30 PM
Hybrid Format – Available both in person* and online** via Zoom. All registrants will have access to a video recording of the conference.
About the 2024 Pittsburgh Family Systems Conference and Symposium
A common emotional process in families is the projection of parents’ anxiety and problems to children. Both the parent and child play an active part in the way the projection process unfolds. A child can function as a stabilizing player in marriage and behave in ways that make them the focus of parents’ attention, concern and delight. Unresolved conflicts in parents’ childhoods can create hopes, expectations and fears that are projected onto their children. The intensity of the projection process can vary among parents and each of their children, creating varying impacts of the process in the same nuclear family. Furthermore, the dynamics of the projection process can be observed in social groups and organizations. Organizations can over-focus on a few employees as the problem when other staff and managers have an active role. In societies, an over-focus on some members can reflect their being blamed for complicated social problems and dilemmas.
Murray Bowen M.D. described his concept of the Family Projection Process as universal and existing in all families, to some extent. He states: “It alleviates the anxiety of undifferentiation in the present generation at the expense of the next generation.” (p.205) Bowen viewed the process as universal in all emotional systems. When the process is repeated over several generations, he referenced the process as a multi-generational transmission process.
Since its inception in 1979, the Pittsburgh Family Systems Conference and Symposium provides a forum for lay and professional persons to present their ideas and efforts to apply the concepts of Bowen family systems theory. Over the two-day meeting presenters illustrate how they apply the theory in personal, business, professional and organizational settings. A lead presentation will be given by a recognized thought-leader in the Bowen family systems theory field. This year’s conference will be both in-person and virtual, assuring access to a local and national audience.
Keynote Presenter
WPFC is pleased to have Ms. Eileen Gottlieb as the conference keynote speaker and commentator for our two-day conference on Dr. Murray Bowen’s emotional projection process. With over 40 years of experience in Bowen family systems, she’s a leader in clinical, teaching, and consultation settings. Ms. Gottlieb has extensively researched the multi-generational emotional process in Jewish families affected by the Holocaust.
Registration Fees
WPFC offers registration for live attendance—in person and online—and to view the recording of the conference for those unable to attend on the scheduled date.
Please note: the conference recordings will be available to all registrants for a period of 60 days.
The WPFC Scholarship Fund was created to provide financial aid to students, clinicians and other professionals facing financial hardships. This fund is made available through the generosity of our donors to keep education accessible and Bowen Family System Theory within reach to further one’s own work.
If you would like to receive financial assistance for this program, please click here to send an email to rebecca@wpfc.net for more information.
COVID Protocol
Western PA Family Center asks those who plan to attend the conference in person to follow all state, local, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 safety guidelines. Please do not attend in person if you have any cold, flu, or COVID symptoms. WPFC will accommodate any needed change in registration from in-person to online. Masks for in-person attendees are optional.
Continuing Education Credits
Applications Pending for 13 CE Credits
CONTACT
Conference Registration questions: Contact Rebecca Keller at rebecca@wpfc.net
WPFC Programs: Faculty Director – Cynthia Larkby, Ph.D. at Cynthia.larkby.phd@icloud.com
