The theory postulates that living human systems survive, develop, and transform from simple to complex through discriminating and integrating information.
Using the method of functional subgrouping, these living human systems increase their ability to see both sides of their issues and resolve them productively.
Systems-centered therapy and consultation developed by Yvonne Agazarian is based on the Theory of Living Human Systems, a theory that can be applied to any living human system as small as one individual or a large group and couples, families, classrooms, committees, businesses or even nations.
[5] Thus the theory offers a set of ideas for thinking about how living human systems work that can be applied at any level.
The theory defines "a hierarchy of isomorphic systems that are energy-organizing, self-correcting and goal directed" – working on the assumption that psychic patterns will be repeated in the same form (isomorphy)at every nested level of interaction.
In this way, it offers a comprehensive systems theory and methodology of practice that can be applied in clinical, organizational and educational settings.
By highlighting and reducing contradiction, ambiguities, and redundancies, i.e. "noise", communication is more effective in transferring information and the system has a better chance of discriminating and integrating its differences.
In systems-centered therapy, members are taught to manage differences and resolve conflicts by a technique called functional subgrouping.
When a group can make use of its differences it becomes more complex and interesting akin to the way music is enriched by harmonies or interwoven themes.
Learning this skill leads to "containing" the energy and gaining the knowledge that frustrations and conflicts arouse, rather than discharging, binding or constricting it in defensive symptoms.
When we understand ourselves in the context of the systems that we belong to and co-create - our families, schools, businesses, labor unions, political parties, churches, sports clubs - we not only participate in their tasks, we are also involved in their development: establishing the distribution of authority and the degree of trust that help these systems survive and grow.
Unsuccessful management of this phase results in members behaving defiantly or compliantly which inevitably undermines the group's development.
Successful management of this phase allows members to gain greater access and intimacy with themselves and also to work together with others in a climate of tested and mutual trust.
SCT work is a partnership in which the therapist governs the structure of the therapy and clients make a series of manageable choices at different "forks in the road".
Clear outcome criteria for each step are in the sequence of defense modification locates the client in the SCT treatment plan.