Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

Which therapeutic approach suggests that problems arise from hidden primary emotions leading to negative interactions?

1. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy

2. Structural Therapy

3. Experiential Therapy

4. General Systems Theory

The correct answer is: Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) posits that many relationship problems stem from unmet emotional needs and the underlying primary emotions that are not adequately expressed. In this approach, therapists work to identify these hidden emotions, which often manifest as negative interactions between partners. The therapy aims to create a safe emotional environment where couples can explore these vulnerabilities and reconnect with each other, ultimately leading to healthier patterns of interaction. By focusing on how primary emotions—such as fear, sadness, and vulnerability—impact communication and behavior within relationships, EFT helps couples to change their negative cycles and build strong emotional bonds. This is critical in addressing the root causes of distress rather than merely alleviating symptoms. In contrast, other approaches like Structural Therapy focus more on the organization of family systems and the roles individuals play within that system, rather than the emotional undercurrents. Experiential Therapy emphasizes feelings and experiences in the moment but may not specifically address the hidden emotions that EFT targets. General Systems Theory provides a broader framework for understanding interactions within systems but does not specifically focus on the emotional dynamics between partners like EFT does.