Uproar

[Steinke] explores the impact and responsibilities of business leaders during tumultuous times in this distinctive study. He touts psychiatrist Murray Bowenâs theory, based on research into parent-child dynamics, that the strength of âsystemsâ such as families and companies depends primarily on the emotional health of those in charge. Steinke argues that, thanks to a plethora of causes including ârecession, two wars, worries about jobs,â and simply âsheer massive change,â the U.S. is in a state he dubs âUproar,â a time of widespread confusion and dislocation. At such times, how leaders deal with anxietyâ"their own and othersâ"will make all the difference. As a contrast to effective leadership, Steinke discusses the âlizard brain,â the instinctual level of the human mind, which reacts to perceived threats automatically, not reflectively. To counter this tendency, Steinke shows how leaders can adopt a ânon-anxious presenceâ and stay on guard for major anxiety triggers, namely âdisruptions,â âfeeling trapped,â âthreat,â âdifferences,â âuncertainty,â and âdepletion.â Steinke includes numerous examples, such as of a newly appointed CEO who pacified feuding departments by creating a workersâ bonus pool. Readers in leadership and support roles alike will find much to ponder and draw on as they struggle to maintain balance and keep their composure at times of stress at work.
â" Publishers Weekly

Peter Steinke is a clear-eyed, skilled consultant whose insights have stood the test of time. Other than Edwin Friedman, Steinke, a Lutheran pastor who studied with Friedman, is perhaps the most well-known of all practitioners of family systems theory. . . a good reminder and a primer for leaders who want to keep their skills sharp and minds calm. Perfect for group study.
â" The Presbyterian Outlook

Dr. Steinke once again illuminates the path towards healthier, more effective church leadership. He consistently provides deep wisdom that is both relevant and transformative.
â" James Boyer, pastoral psychotherapist and organizational consultant

A faithful book, full of insight and illustration.
â" Rick Foss, Bishop, Eastern North Dakota Synod, ELCA

 

In his first two books, Peter Steinke effectively offered the lens of family systems through which to see congregational life. In this new book, he continues his tradition of wit, clarity, and insight while moving to a new level of depth and artistry.
â" W. Craig Gilliam, Director, The Center for Pastoral Effectiveness, The Louisiana Annual Conference of the UMC
 

This is the book youâll want on your shelf and will want to read carefully and digest if you hope to master a rudimentary understanding of the way family systems theory addresses leadership in a congregation.
â" New England Lutheran Theological Forum

Dr. Murray Bowen was a pioneer in his ground-breaking thinking regarding the human family. Dr. Ed Friedman extended that thinking in his area of expertise. Dr. Peter Steinke continues the process. In a clearly written and intriguingly referenced book, Dr. Steinke keeps our interest and curiosity engaged from the beginning to the end. His book combines both the theoretical and practical and does so in a straight-forward and compelling style. A job well done.
â" Kathy Wiseman, Bowen Center for the Study of the Family
 

The book is an absolute pleasure to read. Iâm going to pass it around to the leadership team at my advertising agency.
â" Gloria Beth Amodeo, TBWA/Health Care

In industries where every day is different and performance is critical, much can be learned from the ideas presented in Uproar. Fascinating! I think the airlines would be very interested in a training module that teaches the ideas presented in the book.
â" Dana Stokes, United Airline

During a season of widespread societal and organizational disruption, Peter Steinke is just the mentor that leaders need right now. He makes sense of our experience, challenges our worst inclinations, and tutors our best intentions. In words both bracing and helpful, UPROAR will be my new go-to resource for education, non-profit, and religious leaders who are striving to be calm and courageous amidst the swirl of anxious colleagues and congregations.
â" Tod Bolsinger, Fuller Seminary