Why We Should Move from Reductionism and Embrace a Network Approach to Parental Burnout

Blanchard, Annelise [UCL] Heeren, Alexandre [UCL]

(eng) Network science has allowed varied scientific fields to investigate and visualize complex relations between many variables, and psychology research has begun to adopt a network perspective. In this paper, we consider how leaving behind reductionist approaches and instead embracing a network perspective can advance the field of parental burnout. A network approach allows simultaneous investigations (and clear visualizations) of many variables and their interactions, integrates smoothly with prior family systems theories, and prioritizes dynamic research questions. We discuss potential future clinical applications, such as interventions targeting central nodes and treatment personalized to a specific family’s network system. We also review practical considerations, limitations, and future directions for researchers interested in applying a network approach to parental burnout research.