Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

What concept refers to the hypothetical dividers between subsystems in a family, as discussed by Minuchin?

1. Family Roles

2. Boundaries

3. Subsystem Barriers

4. Family Dynamics

The correct answer is: Boundaries

The concept of boundaries refers to the hypothetical dividers between subsystems in a family, as articulated by Salvador Minuchin, a key figure in the field of family therapy. Boundaries are essential for maintaining the appropriate level of interaction between different subsystems within a family, such as parental, sibling, or marital units. Clear boundaries help delineate roles, responsibilities, and personal space among family members, fostering healthy relationships and functioning. In family therapy, when boundaries are too rigid, it can lead to a lack of communication and emotional distance. Conversely, if boundaries are too diffuse or permeable, it can lead to enmeshment, where individuals have difficulty distinguishing their own feelings and needs from those of others. Understanding and working with boundaries enables therapists to guide families toward healthier interactions and dynamics. While family roles, subsystem barriers, and family dynamics are all relevant concepts in understanding family interactions, boundaries specifically address the separations that influence how subsystems function together, making it the most accurate choice in this context.