What is meant by 'cross-generational coalition' in structural family therapy?

In structural family therapy, the term 'cross-generational coalition' refers to a stable alliance between a parent and a child that works against another parent. This phenomenon often emerges when one parent, often feeling unsupported or overwhelmed, aligns with a child to create a united front, which can result in an imbalance within the family structure. This coalition may inadvertently reinforce unhealthy dynamics, such as triangulation, where tension between two parents manifests through their interactions with a child.

Recognizing and addressing cross-generational coalitions is essential for therapists, as these alliances can hinder effective communication and problem-solving within the family. By restoring boundaries and encouraging more open interactions among all family members, therapists can help dissolve these coalitions and foster healthier family dynamics, allowing all voices to be heard and valued.

This understanding underscores the importance of viewing family relationships as interconnected systems, where shifts in one part can significantly affect the whole, thereby highlighting the focus of structural family therapy on the organization's structure and patterns of interactions.