While there is an element of unpredictability there is also creativity in emergence. There is potential to come up with solutions that are innovative and novel, and perhaps more suitable to the local environment than a structure that is put upon from the outside.
This is important in family support and that is the main reason why I include an exploration of systems theory.
Coming up with solutions from within implies self-organisation as our family adapts to external influences, the external environment adapts to our family, and due to feedback, (movement between the external environment and our family) we adapt our norms, values, behaviour etc. to cope, and vice versa.
Of course, there is no guarantee that the adaptation will move in a positive direction – that is, the direction we want it to go in – but in nature, adaptation generally seems to favour growth, with accompanying increase in complexity. Otherwise we’d all still be amoebas! [1]
The trial and error, chaotic nature of the ordering of society implies that we are all constantly trying to maximize our position. As stated already, not everyone else will be happy with this so there will be frequent conflict. Eventually two or more of us find mutual relevance, that is, something that is beneficial to both or all of us.
As each adapts to our own and others’ needs, a group of us will form a network whose interests or concerns are similar. This network will exert pressure on and/or influence neighbouring networks, or groups, and the inevitable tensions that arise will cause further adjustment.
(Of course, the network will have a particular activity – or activities – that is/are common to all those participating). What is a given (that is, what is certain) is flexibility implying continual change.
Whether it is a primitive organism like the aforementioned amoeba, or a sophisticated network of humans like a family, when creation is through self-organisation, there is uncertainty in the duration, frequency and nature of changes, the behaviour of each member and, ultimately, the whole.
If there was certainty (for example like a computer programme), the entire organisation would actually be far less robust.
This of course is well known to us. Most people are aware that, while thoroughbred dogs, horses etc. may perform better in the specific area for which they are trained, and for which they were bred by man, mongrels are healthier and generally more robust. And a computer will only do what it is told.
So interestingly, uncertainty that is anathema to almost all organisations (particularly large ones) implies strength because of flexibility built from the trial and error nature of the process of growth.
This is very obvious in a well-enough functioning family if we take the time to observe closely.
[1]. I’m using this term to describe the most primitive form of life on Earth – I’m not sure whether or not it is, really.