Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

What is a key characteristic of a problem-saturated narrative?

1. It promotes positive outcomes for individuals

2. It obscures unique outcomes and alternative stories

3. It encourages open communication

4. It simplifies family experiences

The correct answer is: It obscures unique outcomes and alternative stories

A key characteristic of a problem-saturated narrative is that it obscures unique outcomes and alternative stories. This type of narrative focuses heavily on the problems, difficulties, or negative aspects of individuals’ experiences, often leading individuals to view their situations in a restrictive manner. By emphasizing only the challenges and struggles, it prevents individuals from acknowledging or exploring moments of success, resilience, or alternative perspectives that could lead to positive change. In therapy, particularly in approaches such as narrative therapy, it is essential to identify and re-author these narratives to highlight strengths and possibilities for change. When a narrative becomes saturated with problems, it creates a limited view of reality, which can hinder progress and promote a sense of hopelessness. Recognizing this characteristic allows therapists to help clients reclaim their stories by focusing on unique outcomes that exist outside of the problem-saturated context.