Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

Which technique developed by the Milan systemic group allows family members to comment on the behaviors of other members?

1. Circular Questioning

2. Coalitions

3. Behavioral Therapy

4. Coaching

The correct answer is: Circular Questioning

The technique developed by the Milan systemic group that allows family members to comment on the behaviors of other members is known as circular questioning. This approach involves asking each family member about their perceptions of the interactions and behaviors of others within the family system. The goal of circular questioning is to foster understanding and awareness among family members about how their actions affect one another, thereby facilitating a deeper conversation about dynamics and improving communication. By employing circular questioning, therapists can highlight patterns of interaction, promote insights, and encourage family members to think about their roles within the family system. This technique emphasizes interdependence and relational connections, which are central concepts in family therapy, and can often lead to revelations that support therapeutic change. Other techniques mentioned, such as coalitions, behavioral therapy, and coaching, serve different purposes and do not focus specifically on the commenting and observational aspect among family members as effectively as circular questioning does. Coalitions, for example, refer to informal or secret alliances within a family that can lead to conflict, while behavioral therapy focuses more on changing specific behavior patterns. Coaching is generally about skill development and does not directly involve commenting on behaviors in the relational context the question addresses.