Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

In therapy, how might insight be fostered according to structural family therapy?

1. Alter implicit and explicit rules

2. Create stress and disrupt homeostasis

3. Dilute family tension

4. Establish more appropriate hierarchies

The correct answer is: Create stress and disrupt homeostasis

Fostering insight in structural family therapy often involves creating stress and disrupting homeostasis within the family system. This approach is grounded in the belief that families have established patterns of interaction and behavioral norms that maintain stability, even if those patterns are dysfunctional. By introducing stressors or challenging the existing equilibrium, therapists can encourage family members to confront underlying issues, recognize maladaptive patterns, and explore the impact of their relational dynamics. The disruption prompts open discussions about conflicts, roles, and boundaries that may have previously been ignored or unexamined. This process leads to greater awareness and understanding among family members, facilitating insights that can help drive change. Rather than simply alleviating tensions or reinforcing the status quo, this strategy actively engages the family in recognizing and altering their interactional patterns, which is crucial for achieving meaningful therapeutic progress. Creating insight through this means, while uncomfortable at times, is essential for encouraging new ways of interacting and resolving issues, paving the way for healthier family relationships.