Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

What aspect of family therapy highly influenced the establishment of child guidance clinics?

1. Child development theories

2. Social context of psychological problems

3. Emotional wellness of parents

4. Educational support methods

The correct answer is: Social context of psychological problems

The establishment of child guidance clinics was significantly influenced by the social context of psychological problems. In the mid-20th century, there was a growing recognition that children's issues often stem from broader social factors, including family dynamics, community environment, cultural influences, and socioeconomic status. This perspective emphasized understanding a child's behavior not only in isolation but also as a reflection of their environment and relationships. Child guidance clinics were developed to address the needs of children by considering their contexts within the family and society. The focus on the social context allowed therapists to devise comprehensive intervention strategies that involved not just the child, but also their parents and the systemic factors affecting their lives. While child development theories, emotional wellness of parents, and educational support methods certainly play significant roles in child therapy, the primary driving force behind the creation of child guidance clinics was the understanding that a child's mental health cannot be fully addressed without considering the social conditions in which they live. By prioritizing the social context, these clinics sought to create holistic approaches to therapy that better served the needs of children and their families.