MFT Basic Marital and Family Therapy 2

Question 1

Which therapeutic concept describes the process by which family members unconsciously assign roles to one another to maintain homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

Projective identification

Answer

Projective identification is the unconscious process where one person projects an unwanted part of the self onto another, who then identifies with and enacts that role.

Question 2

In emotionally focused therapy (EFT), what are the two primary negative interactional cycles identified by Sue Johnson?

Accepted Answer

Pursue-withdraw and mutual withdrawal

Answer

EFT identifies pursue-withdraw (one partner demands while the other distances) and mutual withdrawal (both partners disengage) as the two core negative cycles.

Question 3

A therapist using the Milan systemic approach asks a family member how they think their sibling feels about the parents' arguing. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Circular questioning

Answer

Circular questioning asks each family member to comment on the relationships or behaviors of other family members, revealing relational patterns and differences.

Question 4

In Bowen family systems theory, what term describes the degree to which a person can maintain a clear sense of self while remaining emotionally connected to others?

Accepted Answer

Differentiation of self

Answer

Differentiation of self refers to the ability to balance intellectual and emotional functioning and maintain individuality within relationships without emotional fusion.

Question 5

Which structural family therapy technique involves the therapist joining with the family's style and language to build alliance before challenging dysfunctional patterns?

Accepted Answer

Mimesis

Answer

Mimesis is Minuchin's technique of adopting the family's communication style, affect, and tempo to build rapport and reduce resistance.

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Basic Marital and Family Therapy 2