The Family System Test (FAST), developed by Thomas M. Gehring, is an important new tool for investigating family relations. Based on the structural-systemic theory of families, it is a figural technique for representing emotional bonds (cohesion) and hierarchical structures in the family or similar social systems. In this unique volume, the editors draw on current theory and research in family or similar social systems together with a variety of empirical studies that have used the FAST, to provide a comprehensive overview and assessment of the test and its use in various clinical research contexts.
The book is divided into four sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the FAST. Part 1 describes the concepts and psychometric properties of the FAST within the context of theoretically and empirically relevant aspects of the field of family psychology as a whole. Special emphasis is given to systematic-structural approaches to assessing individual and family functioning. Part II focuses on the use of the FAST in developmental research. For example, the the FAST has been used to show how family constructs are influenced by age, type of family and situation. Part III deals with cross-cultural issues and compares the interpersonal constructs of Japanese and Chinese families to Western families. Finally, Part IV addresses the applications of the FAST in clinical setting - in diagnosis of biopsychosocial problems and planning and evaluation of clinical interventions.
The result is a book that helps to bridge the gap between theory, practice and research. It will be essential reading for users of the FAST and all clinicians and researchers who work in family relations and development.

About the Author

Thomas M. Gehring is Senior Lecturer for Clinical Psychology at the University of Basle and Health of the Section of Methodology and Evaluation at the Department of Social and Preventative Medicine, University of Zurich. He is the author of the Family System Test (FAST). Marianne Debry is a Professor at the University of Liege and Head of the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychology. She has translated the FAST manual into French. Peter K. Smith is Professor of Psychology at Goldsmiths College, University of London and Head of the Unit for School and Family Studies.

Reviews

`This is a unique book ... It offers all those who make use of family systems theory in therapy an opportunity to explore the benefits of objectivity without compromising their therapeutic integrity' - Peter Randall, University of Hull.

`The manuscript is impressive it presents a wealth of empirical data to support the validity of the FAST test and its flexible application to a wide range of settings and client groups readable for both researchers and clinicians who have an interest but not an extensive training in research methods.' - David Campbell, Tavistock Clinic, London

Book Information
ISBN 9781138969599
Author Thomas M. Gehring
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 590g