The nurse is interviewing a family and observes tension between the two parents, and the child reports that the mother often involves her in deciding who is right. This observation is an example of
The nurse is interviewing a family and observes tension between the two parents, and the child reports that the mother often involves her in deciding who is right. This observation is an example of
A. triangulation.
[58%]
B. coalition.
[22%]
C. fusion.
[6%]
D. differentiation.
[14%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Family Dynamics
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice A is correct. This scenario classically depicts triangulation. This inappropriate family dynamic is when a parent involves a child in a conflict with one another, and the child either acts as a mediator or is asked to take sides. Another example is when one parent does not communicate with another and sends messages through the child.
Choice B is incorrect. A coalition is a secret or semi-secret alliance between two family members against another family member. Nothing in the observation indicates that the involved child is in an alliance (or coalition) with another, as this child was invited into this conflict by one of the parents in an attempt to triangulate the other.
Choice C is incorrect. Fusion occurs when two undifferentiated people function as a single emotional system. This blurring of emotional lines by two undifferentiated individuals is unhealthy. Undifferentiated individuals possess little self-identity and have decreased goal-directed behavior. They are often dependent on each other and vulnerable to stress and conflict. This is not provided in the scenario.
Choice D is incorrect. Differentiation is a positive finding because while the individual is still associated with the family, they have their own identity and can have goal-directed behavior. They are independent and do not need others to manage their conflict. This is not provided in the scenario.
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3 Key Topics
Family Dynamics
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Additional Info
✓ The term undifferentiated ego mass refers to a family where the members don't function independently of one another at all. They don't have a strong sense of self.
✓ Differentiation is the goal of this therapy to create individual identity and goal-directed behavior while still having an association with the family.
✓ Fusion occurs when two undifferentiated people function as a single emotional system.
✓ Differentiated or undifferentiated parents pass these traits down to their children; it becomes a multi-generational process.
