Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

In the context of family therapy, what are Dramatizations used for?

1. To create awareness of family dynamics

2. To encourage children to perform problem behaviors

3. To reinforce positive behaviors

4. To distract from parental attention

The correct answer is: To encourage children to perform problem behaviors

Dramatizations in family therapy serve a vital role in creating awareness of family dynamics. They provide a unique opportunity for family members to express feelings, thoughts, and patterns of behavior within a safe and controlled environment. Through dramatization, family members can enact situations or dialogues that reveal underlying issues, conflicts, and interactions that may not be easily articulated. This method can help illuminate how family members relate to one another, making abstract concepts tangible and understandable. By engaging in role-playing or enacting scenarios that reflect real-life situations, therapists can guide families toward deeper insights and discussions about their relationships. The goal is not to encourage problem behaviors, but rather to foster understanding and facilitate healthier communication patterns among family members. Thus, dramatizations help to highlight dynamics that may require attention and intervention in therapy, leading to constructive change and improved family interactions. This approach is particularly effective in uncovering hidden emotional responses and unspoken rules that govern family behavior, thereby promoting healing and understanding.