ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Internal Family Systems Model

The Internal Family Systems Model is like having a family of different parts inside your head. Just like how you have different family members who each have their own personalities and roles, you also have different parts within yourself that each have their own unique feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.

These parts can sometimes feel like they're conflicting with one another, just like how siblings can argue and fight with each other. The Internal Family Systems Model helps us understand how these parts work together and how to communicate with them in a healthy way.

To use the model, we first get to know each of our different parts and understand what they are trying to do for us. For example, we might have a part that feels anxious in social situations because it's trying to protect us from being rejected or hurt.

We then learn how to communicate with each of these parts in a caring and compassionate way, just like how we would talk to our family members during a disagreement. We might say things like, "I understand that you're trying to protect me, but I don't need your help in this situation" or "Thank you for your concern, but I feel safe and confident right now."

By using the Internal Family Systems Model, we can develop a better understanding of ourselves and how to manage our emotions and behaviors in a healthy way. It can help us find balance and harmony within ourselves, just like how a loving family works together to support each other.