The Calgary Family Assessment Model (CFAM) is a framework that was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Mary Ann Bruce, a family therapist and researcher at the University of Calgary. The model is designed to help practitioners understand the complexity of families and the various factors that can impact their functioning. It is a holistic and systems-oriented approach that considers the family as a unit, rather than focusing solely on the individual members.
The CFAM consists of five main components: family structure, family process, family interaction patterns, family development, and family resources. These components are interconnected and influence one another, and practitioners use the model to assess the strengths and challenges of a family in order to develop an appropriate intervention plan.
The family structure component of the CFAM includes considerations such as the number of family members, their ages, and their roles and responsibilities. It also looks at the type of family (e.g. nuclear, extended), the level of cohesiveness, and any power imbalances or conflicts within the family.
The family process component looks at how the family communicates, problem-solves, and makes decisions. It also examines the emotional climate within the family, including the level of warmth, acceptance, and emotional support.
The family interaction patterns component looks at the ways in which family members interact with one another, including the use of nonverbal communication, the use of humor, and the level of conflict resolution skills.
The family development component considers the stage of development that the family is in, such as whether they are in the forming, storming, norming, performing, or adjourning stage. It also looks at the life cycle events that the family has experienced, such as birth, death, and divorce, and how these have impacted the family.
Finally, the family resources component looks at the external supports that the family has available, such as community resources, social support, and financial resources. It also considers the family's internal resources, such as their level of resilience, adaptability, and coping skills.
In summary, the Calgary Family Assessment Model is a comprehensive and flexible framework that helps practitioners understand the complex dynamics of families and develop interventions that are tailored to their specific needs. It is a useful tool for family therapists and other professionals who work with families to improve their functioning and well-being.