MFT Trauma and Abuse in Family Systems

Question 1

What is the primary defining characteristic of trauma according to the MFT framework?

Accepted Answer

An overwhelming experience that exceeds one's ability to cope

Answer

Trauma is defined as an overwhelming experience that exceeds an individual's capacity to cope, leading to lasting psychological effects regardless of the specific event.

Question 2

The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study's key finding was that:

Accepted Answer

Higher ACE scores are associated with increased risk of health and mental health problems in adulthood

Answer

The ACE study demonstrated a dose-response relationship between cumulative adverse childhood experiences and negative physical and mental health outcomes in adulthood.

Question 3

A family therapist beginning work with a trauma survivor should prioritize which of the following in the initial treatment phase?

Accepted Answer

Establishing safety and stabilization

Answer

The phase-based model of trauma treatment (e.g., Herman's model) begins with establishing safety and stabilization before any trauma memory processing occurs.

Question 4

Secondary traumatic stress (STS) in MFTs is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Trauma-like symptoms that develop through empathic exposure to clients' traumatic material

Answer

Secondary traumatic stress (also called vicarious trauma or compassion fatigue) occurs when therapists develop PTSD-like symptoms through empathic engagement with traumatized clients.

Question 5

Which of the following is an evidence-based treatment specifically developed for processing trauma?

Accepted Answer

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Answer

EMDR is a well-researched, evidence-based treatment for PTSD and trauma that uses bilateral stimulation while processing traumatic memories.

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Trauma and Abuse in Family Systems