MFT Ultimate Marital and Family Therapy 2

Question 1

In structural family therapy, what term describes the invisible rules that govern how family members interact with one another?

Accepted Answer

Boundaries

Answer

Boundaries are the invisible rules in structural family therapy that define who participates in interactions and how, shaping family organization.

Question 2

A couple argues that their therapist is 'taking sides' after the therapist empathizes with the wife's perspective. This reaction most likely reflects which therapeutic concept?

Accepted Answer

Therapist neutrality challenge

Answer

Couples frequently test therapist neutrality; when one partner perceives empathy toward the other as bias, it represents a neutrality challenge the therapist must address.

Question 3

Which theorist developed the concept of 'differentiation of self' as central to healthy family functioning?

Accepted Answer

Murray Bowen

Answer

Murray Bowen developed differentiation of self, describing the ability to maintain one's identity and emotional autonomy while staying connected to the family.

Question 4

A therapist notices that every time the parents in therapy discuss their conflict, the adolescent son begins acting out. This is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Triangulation

Answer

Triangulation occurs when a third person (the son) is pulled into a dyadic conflict to reduce tension between the original pair.

Question 5

In emotionally focused therapy (EFT) for couples, the primary goal of Stage 1 is to:

Accepted Answer

Restructure negative interaction cycles

Answer

Stage 1 of EFT focuses on de-escalating the negative interaction cycle by helping partners recognize and interrupt their destructive patterns.

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Exam Practice Test

MFT Ultimate Marital and Family Therapy 2