National Counselor Exam (NCE)

What is a key role of a therapist in strategic family therapy?

1. To act as a mediator in conflicts

2. To find myths sustaining certain behaviors

3. To offer interpretations of family history

4. To facilitate recreational activities

The correct answer is: To find myths sustaining certain behaviors

In strategic family therapy, a key role of the therapist is to identify and challenge the myths or underlying beliefs that sustain certain dysfunctional behaviors within the family system. This approach emphasizes the need to understand the meaning behind behaviors and how these beliefs influence interactions among family members. By recognizing these myths, the therapist can help the family members see their patterns more clearly, leading to the possibility of change. Strategic family therapy focuses on changing behaviors and interactions rather than delving deeply into family history or dynamics. While other roles such as mediating conflicts or facilitating activities can be relevant in broader therapeutic contexts, they do not capture the essence of what makes strategic family therapy distinct. The therapist's goal is to create interventions aimed at breaking dysfunctional patterns by addressing the myths that underlie them, making this the most accurate answer.