Who developed the concept of the "saturated family"?

The concept of the "saturated family" was developed by Kenneth Gergen. In the context of family therapy, Gergen's work focuses on how relationships and family dynamics change with social and cultural influences, particularly in a postmodern society. The notion of a "saturated family" reflects the idea that families are often overwhelmed with competing narratives, expectations, and experiences, leading to a diluted sense of identity and coherence. Gergen emphasizes the importance of understanding these pressures to help families navigate their complexities.

In contrast, the other theorists mentioned have contributed to different concepts and theories in family therapy. For example, Bowen is known for his work on family systems theory, which emphasizes intergenerational patterns and the importance of differentiation of self. Minuchin is recognized for structural family therapy, which focuses on the organization and patterns of interaction within families. Satir is celebrated for her humanistic approach and her focus on communication patterns and self-esteem in families. Each of these theorists has significantly influenced the field of family therapy, but Gergen specifically addressed the concept related to the saturation of family narratives.