Gender and illness: implications for family therapy

This paper outlines the importance of considering gender when working with professionals and families dealing with a life-threatening or chronic illness. Clinical vignettes are used to demonstrate the importance of addressing gender to avoid attributing pathology to behaviour that could otherwise be viewed as normal. The particular contribution of the family therapist is highlighted, including suggestions about how systemic interventions can be introduced to enhance the capacity of those involved to deal with the transitions demanded by such illnesses.