What change occurs when the rules governing behavior within a system alter?

When the rules governing behavior within a system alter, this is identified as second-order change. Second-order change refers to a fundamental transformation in the underlying dynamics or structure of a system, rather than a superficial adjustment. This type of change alters the foundational beliefs, norms, or rules that dictate how members of the system interact with one another, allowing for a reorganization of relationships and individual roles within that system.

In the context of family therapy or systems theory, this shift can lead to new patterns of behavior and interaction that can have lasting impacts on the system as a whole. For example, if a family shifts their communication style from blame to open dialogue, they are not just making a temporary adjustment; they are changing the way that family members relate to one another at a fundamental level.

In contrast, first-order change involves more superficial changes that do not alter the underlying structure of the system. For instance, if family members begin to use a specific communication technique without changing their overall communication patterns or roles, it remains a first-order change. Other types of change, such as permanent or transient changes, don't accurately capture the depth and impact of the restructuring that occurs with second-order changes.