FD Double-bind theory

• Conflicting family communication
• Bateson et al described how a child may be regularly trapped in situations where they fear doing the wrong, but receive conflicting messages about what counts as wrong
• They cannot express their feelings about the unfairness of the situation
• When they 'get it wrong' the child is punished by withdrawal of love - they learn the world is confusing and dangerous, leading to disorganised thinking and delusions
• Double bind occurs when individuals are in a situation where they receive two or more conflicting messages
• No escape, any attempts to leave results in more conflicting demands or emotional consequences
• Punishment for correct perception - often met with punishment or dismissal