But theorists (and clinicians) who use a power-and-conflict model recognize that systems are almost inherently (and indeed may universally) be unequal with some people (or subgroups) holding more power than others. And this inequality in the system is not due to a dysfunctionality that can be remedied through interventions such as improving communications or even empowering those without power. While the latter would seem to be a strategy that would make an unequal system into an equal one, a power-and-conflict theorists would argue that systems are necessarily unequal. Thus even if one part of a system is given more power this will not lead to an equal system since power will never stay in balance. It will simply shift from one person or group to another -- either permanently or temporarily.

There is some possibility for hope in such a model. Power-and-conflict theorists believe that individual communities cannot become entirely...
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