Dealing with harassment situations using the systemic approach

The treatment of bullying through systemic therapies is an area of psychology that offers effective approaches to help victims overcome the devastating effects of bullying and the psychological violence that accompanies it. Systemic therapies are distinguished by a processual reading and a solution-oriented approach, focused on the present and on the search for practical ways to solve problems. In the context of harassment, they aim to help victims regain control of their lives, restore their self-esteem and develop strategies to deal with the attackers.

Harassment, a symptom of dysfunctional systems

The treatment of harassment aims to understand and resolve harassment problems by considering the entire system in which they occur. This therapeutic approach recognizes that bullying is not just limited to the individual harasser and the victim, but is influenced by many interconnected factors, such as family dynamics, organizational culture, social norms, etc. Systems approaches view bullying as a symptom of a larger problem within a system.

An interactional reading of harassment

They emphasize the importance of understanding the relationships and interactions between individuals involved in harassment. The systemist examines family, social or professional dynamics to identify dysfunctional dynamics at the origin of harassment, considered a symptom of a larger problem. Interested in the dysfunctional processes of the relationship, systemic approaches offer an interactional and non-stigmatizing reading of harassment, recognizing that the harasser can himself be the victim of a dysfunctional dynamic. In this reading, harassment appears as an evolving process, not just an isolated incident.

An interactional reading applicable in different contexts

The systems approach can be used in varied contexts, such as families, schools, businesses and institutions. It allows us to take into account the cultural and societal factors that can contribute to harassment.

Systemic therapists may work closely with other professionals, such as human resources counselors, to resolve issues of bullying in the workplace, with families, or with teachers during difficult situations at school.

Systemic therapies and metacommunication

Communication plays a key role in systemic therapies to resolve bullying-related conflicts. Systemicists will question the nature of the underlying emotions of the parties involved and their position in the dialogue. They will use metaphorical language with lots of reframing and encourage individuals to think about their role in the system and become aware of their own behavior.

Conflict resolution focused on finding mutually acceptable solutions

Systemic therapy may involve group sessions to collectively address issues of bullying within an organization.

The systemic approach can also help victims rebuild their self-esteem and recover emotionally.

Creating change

The approach aims to create lasting change by changing patterns of behavior and communication within the system and holding individuals involved in harassment accountable.

A solution-oriented approach

Children and adolescents can benefit from this approach to dealing with bullying at school. At the same time, systemic therapy can help parents understand and support their children who are victims of bullying by focusing on the collaboration and active engagement of all parties involved in the system.

Systemic therapy can help victims develop assertiveness skills to cope with harassment. It can also help bullies learn positive alternatives to their behavior. Professionals often use emotional regulation techniques to help individuals manage their reactions to harassment.

How does a systemic therapy session work for a case of harassment?

Systemic therapists work with victims to identify the immediate problems they are experiencing due to harassment and to develop concrete action plans. This may include learning stress management techniques, improving communication skills, or setting clear boundaries with bullies.

Systemic therapies also emphasize the resources and skills of victims. Therapists help clients recognize their personal strengths and mobilize them to cope with bullying. This can help build emotional resilience and improve victims' self-confidence, aspects that are often seriously affected by bullying.

Sessions are often structured to maximize effectiveness, focusing on specific problems and providing practical solutions. The techniques used vary depending on the individual needs of the victims.

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