CAASP Family Systems 3

Question 1

In Bowen Family Systems Theory, a 'nuclear family emotional process' describes how a family manages anxiety. Which of the following is NOT one of the four primary relationship patterns used?

Accepted Answer

Sibling triangulation

Answer

Bowen identified marital conflict, dysfunction in one spouse, child focus, and emotional distance — not sibling triangulation — as the four patterns of nuclear family emotional process.

Question 2

A youth's behavior improves at school but deteriorates at home. A family systems practitioner would most likely interpret this as:

Accepted Answer

A symptom serving a function within the family system

Answer

Systems theory views symptoms as serving a function in maintaining homeostasis; the behavior difference across settings signals a systemic dynamic at home.

Question 3

Cultural humility in CAASP family-systems work differs from cultural competence primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Emphasizes ongoing self-reflection and power-sharing over static knowledge

Answer

Cultural humility is an ongoing process of self-reflection, acknowledging one's biases, and equalizing power dynamics, rather than claiming mastery of another culture.

Question 4

A CAASP wraparound team includes the family, natural supports, and service providers. The primary purpose of natural supports in this model is to:

Accepted Answer

Offer sustainable, community-based connections that outlast formal services

Answer

Natural supports — friends, neighbors, faith communities — are included because they provide durable relationships that persist after formal service plans end.

Question 5

Which concept explains why changing one part of a family system (e.g., improving one child's behavior) can produce unexpected changes in other family members?

Accepted Answer

Circular causality

Answer

Circular causality describes the bidirectional, mutually influencing nature of family relationships, where change in one part loops back to affect all other parts.

(CAASP) Child and Adolescent Service System Program Practice Test

(CAASP) Child and Adolescent Service System Program Practice Test

CAASP Family Systems 3