The influence of the family on individual behavior has long been debated, but has not received comprehensive coverage in the psychopathology literature until now. Offering a substantial contribution to contemporary nature-nurture discussions, this authoritative volume shows how many forms of psychopathology can be seen as products of external (contextual or relational) rather than internal (neurological or physiological) conditions.

From both theoretical and clinical standpoints, leading experts describe a variety of dysfunctional family patterns and analyze how they can lead to different kinds of individual, marital, and family disorders. Covering theory, research, prevention, and treatment, this work serves as a reference for researchers and practitioners, and as a text in abnormal psychology and family psychology courses.