Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

Which term refers to a defense mechanism within a family system where members unconsciously share thoughts to protect against outside threats?

1. Collusion

2. Cohesion

3. Communication

4. Cooperation

The correct answer is: Collusion

The term that refers to a defense mechanism within a family system where members unconsciously share thoughts to protect against outside threats is collusion. This concept highlights how family members may engage in a collective agreement to shield themselves from external pressures or challenges. In a collusive dynamic, family members may not openly acknowledge issues or agree on perceptions, but they develop a kind of unconscious alliance that minimizes conflict and maintains stability within the family. This can create an environment where members tacitly support each other's avoidance of difficult truths or external realities, reinforcing a shared defensive stance against perceived threats. Collusion can be particularly significant in family therapy, as it often requires therapeutic intervention to help families recognize and change these patterns to improve communication and resolve conflicts more openly. Understanding this mechanism is vital for therapists, as it enables them to address the underlying issues constrained by these protective behaviors and promote healthier dynamics within the family system.