Exam 3: Couples/family counseling

Question 1

systems theory

Answer 1

generic term for conceptualizing a group of related elements (such as people) that interact as a whole entity ⇒ a family or couple
- The system is more than the sum of its parts ⇒ the different components interact with and influence each other

Question 2

examples of subsystems

Answer 2

Siblings vs siblings, mother vs father, parent vs child

Question 3

how are individuals best understood?

Answer 3

through assessing the interactions between and among family members ⇒ self report, direct observation in session, etc.
- Western families may define family differently than other cultures ⇒ nuclear family vs extended families or multi-generations

Question 4

key figures of systems theory/family counseling

Answer 4

1. Virginia Satir
2. Murray Brown

Question 5

Virginia Satir

Answer 5

was a founder of experiential approaches to family therapy
- Focused on the communication that families engage in
- Focused on unfinished business ⇒ communications occurring, verbal and non verbal communications, etc.

Question 6

Murray Brown

Answer 6

founded the family system theory (Bowen theory)
- Focused on how to conceptualize problems as a result of the family of origin ⇒ what the relationships exhibit and demonstrate
- Did Not believe in mental illness and believed this comes from the family of origin

Question 7

assumptions of family systems theory for client behaviors (4)

Answer 7

• Serve a function in the family
• Be unintentionally maintained by family processes
• Be a function of a family’s inability to operate productively
• Be a symptom of dysfunctional patterns => intergenerational

Question 8

how do problems develop in systems theory? (4)

Answer 8

• triangulation
• fusion
• emotional cutoff
• multigenerational transmission process

Question 9

triangulation

Answer 9

process in which two people who are in conflict involve a third person in order to reduce the tension and avoid conflict in the relationship

Question 10

fusion

Answer 10

family members feelings, thoughts, and behaviors are merged (undifferentiated) ⇒ unsure of who they are

Question 11

emotional cutoff

Answer 11

boundaries are too rigid and family members are not in emotional contact ⇒ don’t express emotions and relationships are not close
Don’t understand one another emotions and don’t communicate them when there are problems

Question 12

Multigenerational transmission process

Answer 12

dysfunctional patterns are passed from generation to generation

Question 13

how does change occur in systems theory?

Answer 13

• detriangulate
• Differentiation while remaining connected ⇒ what each individual person feels

Question 14

de-triangulate

Answer 14

therapist brings attention to the role each person is playing
- Ideally done when all family members are in the room

Question 15

couples therapy issues (6_

Answer 15

• Communication
• Unrealistic expectations for a relationship or a spouse
• Little demonstration of affection/sex
• Power struggles
• Decision making issues
• Money management issues

Question 16

types of bad communication (5)

Answer 16

• Excessive demands
• Withdrawing
• Expecting partner to read mind
• Not listening to the other person
• Yelling, arguing, shouting

Question 17

4 types of problematic communication in couples therapy

Answer 17

1. criticism
2. contempt
3. defensiveness
4. stonewalling

Question 18

criticism definition

Answer 18

one partner attacks the other partners personality or character usually with the intent of someone being right and the other is wrong ⇒ blaming, rudeness, etc.
- Generalizations (you always, you never, etc.)

Question 19

contempt definition

Answer 19

attacking partners’ sense of self with intention to insult ⇒ Best predictor of separation ⇒ more about disrespect, mockery, sarcasm, etc.
- Can become emotional abuse and partners understanding of who they are

Question 20

defensiveness definition

Answer 20

a way to make an excuse and usually the sentence starts off with agreeing but then disagreeing ⇒ deflecting blame or avoiding responsibility
- Not really listening to what the other is saying

Question 21

stonewalling definition

Answer 21

withdrawing from the relationship as a way to avoid conflict
- May look neutral but is actually harmful

Question 22

what is the ratio of positive to negative behaviors?

Answer 22

5:1 ratio of positive to negative behaviors

Question 23

integrative behavioral couples therapy (IBCT)

Answer 23

involves negotiation, problem solving, and communication skills training
- Using the “I” statement
- Integrative because it involves making changes and accepting realities about the other person

Question 24

emotion focused couples therapy (EFCT)

Answer 24

focus on identifying and expressing primary emotions rather than secondary emotions
- Primary emotions beneath their secondary emotions
- This leads to rebuilding attachment bonds