Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the "Constitutionalist Self" in Narrative Therapy?

1. A rigid self-identity

2. A self that is fixed and unchanging

3. A self continuously reconstructed through interactions

4. A self that relies solely on external validation

The correct answer is: A self continuously reconstructed through interactions

The concept of the "Constitutionalist Self" in Narrative Therapy emphasizes that the self is not a static entity, but rather one that is continuously constructed and reconstructed through social interactions and relationships. In this framework, individuals are seen as storytellers who actively shape their identities based on their experiences, cultural contexts, and the narratives they and others create about them. This perspective allows for a more fluid understanding of selfhood, where an individual’s identity can evolve over time in response to new experiences and perspectives. This aligns with the principles of Narrative Therapy, which focus on the importance of personal agency and the dynamic nature of identity formation. Through this lens, individuals can re-author their lives, challenge dominant narratives that may be limiting, and create more empowering stories about themselves. This process involves recognizing that identities are influenced by various factors, such as relationships, societal expectations, and personal history, allowing for a richer and more diverse understanding of the self.