Family therapy and incomplete families

Much of the literature in family therapy refers to the clinically orientated work with well‐motivated families using specific techniques. This article briefly outlines the two main theoretical stances within family therapy as a whole, and describes three categories of incompleteness in families with particular reference to the idea of ‘masked’ incompleteness. This is illustrated by five case examples which show some of the common difficulties of working with families whose disturbance includes a masked incompleteness. The inadequacies of a singular treatment approach with such families are outlined, and it is suggested that the ‘systems’ approach in particular has limitations and possible contra‐indications in such circumstances. It is argued that the more eclectic and pragmatic approach described, whilst remaining within the boundaries of family therapy as a whole, is likely to offer a more effective consideration of the long term needs of such families.