The will as a vehicle of family dynamics

The will is an instrument of generational transfer and change. In addition to the realistic decision making processes that go into the writing of a will, family dynamics play a role in this deliveration. This paper will describe a family where a surviving parent changed her will since she claimed that two of her three children were not showing her adequate love and respect. In brief family therapy and with legal support, the will was changed to its original form, dividing the estate equally. No changes were facilitated in family atmosphere or style. Several months later her eldest son's child was referred for treatment because of a behaviour problem at school and this family entered into family treatment. The family had to deal with the emotional disengagement of the grandmother. In addition, her oldest son's sadness, disappointment in his mother's behaviour, which was reflected in the grandson's symptomatology were worked through as well as structural changes to help build an organized family with a tradition based on integrity, trust, and respect. Family dynamics and changes in wills will be discussed.