From 1970s', systems theory become one of the most important concept in social work. To apply the systems theory to social work practice, systems theory is a more difficult problem because it has many merits as well as demerits. The chief merit of systems theory is that it makes condition of social problem clear and happenings predictable. The chief demerit of the theory for social work practices is that it is not a theory of change but a theory of stability. In other words, as interesting as this theory might be for explaining human behavior, it was not a simple guide to what to do in social work. Family therapy, however, is one of a practice form based on systems theory, and many case studies indicate empirical merits of systems theory. Refering the therapeutic view of family therapy and through three case studies practiced in social welfare office, mental hospital and child guidance clinic, this paper deals with empirical framework of family casework based on systems approach. Further, we would like to point out some problems of Japanese social welfare system which prevent social workers from working with family according to systems approach. Concretely we discuss in following style: 1. Introduction 2. From linear causality to circular causality 3. Case studies 4. Consideration of systems approach
