Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

During family therapy, what is crucial for addressing issues among step-siblings?

1. Identifying cultural differences

2. Fostering development of new relationships

3. Addressing conflicts within the family dynamics

4. Assessing the effects of past relationships

The correct answer is: Addressing conflicts within the family dynamics

In family therapy, particularly when working with step-siblings, addressing conflicts within the family dynamics is crucial. This involves understanding and navigating the complexities that arise when blending families. Step-siblings often have to grapple with feelings of loyalty, rivalry, and the challenge of forming new familial relationships while potentially mourning the loss of their previous family structure. By focusing on conflicts, the therapist can help the family identify specific issues, improve communication, and promote understanding among all members. This can facilitate healthier interactions moving forward and support the development of more cohesive relationships within the newly formed family structure. Such an approach encourages each member, including step-siblings, to express their feelings, clarify misunderstandings, and work towards resolving disputes, ultimately promoting harmony in the family unit. While other factors like cultural differences, the development of new relationships, and the effects of past relationships are important in the overall therapeutic process, they can be better addressed once the immediate conflicts and dynamics affecting the step-siblings are acknowledged and worked through. This foundational work is essential for the therapeutic process to be effective.