Systems Theory and Systems Change

Understanding systems theory and how it relates to change in educational and related systems can help inform school psychologists’ efforts to improve student outcomes. The primary aim of the chapter is to provide an overview of the theoretical foundations of systems change and how systems change principles can be utilized in the complex, dynamic settings in which school psychologists function. Specifically, this chapter (a) includes a review of systems theory, (b) provides a brief overview of different theoretical frameworks for systems change, (c) describes one model for facilitating systems change, and (d) illustrates how school psychologists can translate systems theory to practice through a case study example.