About this episode

This episode explores Family Systems Theory and its impact on relationships and individual behavior within family dynamics.

Have you ever walked back into your parents' house and suddenly felt like you'd downloaded an old version of yourself? In today’s episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest explain why through one of the most influential frameworks in psychology: Family Systems Theory (FST). FST argues that hidden rules govern the behavior of the groups we’re a part of, and when you know the rules it’s easier to see them in action. Rick and Forrest explore how systems replicate patterns of behavior, place people into specific roles, and manage anxiety through shifting alliances. They close with how we can become differentiated by building a stronger sense of self. Topics include balancing closeness and distance, triangulation, specific roles like the “golden child,” FST’s non-pathologizing stance, the intergenerational transmission of patterns, and building strong relationships outside the system. This episode includes references to self-harm. Key Topics: 0:00: Intro 2:19: What’s Family Systems Theory? 12:01: Overview of big concepts in FST 18:50: Family roles 25:19: How anxiety moves through a family system 36:42: The “identified patient” 46:51: Balancing compassion, agency, and responsibility 51:11: How…

Sponsors

Huel

More episodes of Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

• Recovering from BPD with Mentalization-Based Therapy with Robert Drozek · April 27, 2026 · 1h 38m
• Breaking the Habit of Overthinking: Rumination, Cognitive Bypassing, and the Insight Trap · April 20, 2026 · 1h 22m
• Trauma Therapy: What It’s Really Like with Dr. Jacob Ham and Elizabeth Ferreira · April 13, 2026 · 1h 16m
• 6 Lessons from Existential and Transpersonal Psychology · April 6, 2026 · 1h 27m
• Self-Regulation: How a Little Becomes a Lot with Eric Zimmer · March 30, 2026 · 1h 14m
• The Self-Abandonment Loop: Shame, Self-Criticism, and How to Break Free · March 23, 2026 · 1h 20m

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson podcast page.