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Systems and Conflict Theories

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This paper discusses systems and social conflict theories as they directly relate to human and

social behaviors. Systems theory, developed by researcher Ludwig von Bertalanffy, describes

human behaviors, their daily interactions, and how various environmental systems affect these

behaviors. Social conflict theory, developed by Karl Marx, examines how various people strive

for a common resource (Oberschall, 1978). In systems theory, behavior is highly influenced by

various interactions and those that are closely related. Systems theory also describes various

values and cultural practices acquired through families and other organizations (Laszlo &

Krippner, 1998). Conflict theory on the other hand describes how some people attain higher

ranks than others in society through possessing certain amounts of wealth or resources, thus

creating an unequal cultural coexistence that would later lead to class segregation.

System and conflict theories are two major theories that can be applied in real-life social

work practice to help social workers understand the dynamics of a service user's situation and

inform their interventions. System theories focus on the interconnectedness of all elements

within a system, such as a family or a community. It seeks to identify the relationships between

people and the impact of external forces on the system (Laszlo & Krippner, 1998). Conflict

theories emphasize the power imbalances between groups and the potential for conflict to arise

as a result. These theories are useful in social work practice because they provide a framework

for understanding the complexities of the social environment and the potential sources of

conflict. By understanding the underlying systems and sources of conflict, social workers can

better target their interventions to address the specific needs of their clients.

Systems and conflict theories both provide useful approaches when working with Hispanic

families to understand their cultural heritage. Systems theory can be used to understand how
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family members interact with each other and how their cultural heritage contributes to the

dynamics of the family system. This can help identify patterns of behavior and how different

factors within the family system, such as values, beliefs, and traditions, affect the family's overall

functioning. Conflict theory can be used to understand how family members interact with each

other when there is disagreement or tension and to identify the sources of conflict.
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References

Laszlo, A., & Krippner, S. (1998). Systems theories: Their origins, foundations, and

development. Advances in Psychology-Amsterdam-, 126, 47-76.

Oberschall, A. (1978). Theories of social conflict. Annual review of sociology, 291-315.