Recurring Family Dynamics

Participants have raised many interesting questions that help us clarify our thoughts about systemic constellations.

One participant asked: What role does a person’s family background play when exploring work, personal goals, or issues? Additionally, how do you proceed when a constellation reveals connections to family background? Answer: Issues originating from a person's family often replay in the workplace, and this phenomenon is more common than one might think. For instance, if someone feels they were treated unfairly at home or has previously resisted their father but failed, they may carry those feelings into the office. This person might unconsciously see their boss as a father figure, creating the same kind of conflict, yet the boss is likely unaware of what’s happening. As a result, conflicts become unavoidable.  Many interpersonal conflicts in the workplace may stem from unconscious family dynamics. In constellations, when situations genuinely relate to family issues, you can observe this through the reactions of the representatives. Sometimes, during organizational constellation workshops, if the client agrees, we can delve into family matters, but this depends on the participants present and the level of trust built within the group. When the situation isn't appropriate, we recommend that the client seek guidance from a private constellation facilitator or attend family systems constellation workshops.

Extracted from “Invisible Dynamics: Systemic Constellations in Organisations and in Business”

by Klaus P. Horn and Regine Brick