Question 1

Of the various postmodern schools, which of the following philosophies were family therapists the first to embrace?

Accepted Answer

Family therapists were among the first to embrace social constructionism, which focuses on how social phenomena develop in social contexts and emphasizes the role of language and interaction in the construction of reality.

Question 2

Systemic counselors view the presenting problem not as an individual problem but as a(n) __________one, specifically an interactional one, even if the counselor is working with an individual.

Accepted Answer

Systemic counselors focus on the relational aspects of problems, seeing issues as rooted in the dynamics and interactions within relationships, rather than solely within individuals.

Question 3

__________ therapies are based on the premise that objective truth can never be fully known because it must always pass through subjective and intersubjective filters.

Accepted Answer

Postmodernist therapies argue that objective truth is inaccessible because it is always interpreted through individual and collective subjective lenses, challenging the notion of a single, universal truth.

Question 4

It is said that systemic and postmodern therapies have more shared views than differences. Which of the following statements is NOT TRUE about their shared assumptions?

Accepted Answer

Systemic and postmodern therapies both emphasize the subjective and constructed nature of reality, rather than believing in an objective, outsider perspective to determine truths. They focus on how individuals' realities and experiences are shaped by their relationships and social contexts.

Question 5

According to postmodernism, the construction of reality is a complex process that involves four levels, including which one of the following?

Accepted Answer

Postmodernism posits that reality is constructed through various levels, including the societal level, which emphasizes the role of social contexts, norms, and structures in shaping our understanding of the world.

Question 6

Which of the following statements best describes the concept of reflexivity?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following statements best describes...

Question 7

How does postmodern philosophy heighten awareness of diversity issues?

Accepted Answer

Postmodern philosophy, by emphasizing the existence of multiple realities and truths, inherently acknowledges and validates a diversity of perspectives and experiences. This approach contrasts with more traditional, singular views of truth and reality, thereby heightening awareness of diversity issues by recognizing and valuing the plurality of human experiences and understandings.

Question 8

__________ is founded on the assumption that there is an external and knowable "truth."

Accepted Answer

Modernism is based on the belief that through reason, science, and technology, humans can access and understand an objective reality or "truth." This contrasts with postmodernism, which often questions the existence of a single, knowable truth.

Question 9

"No one individual unilaterally controls behavior in a system. Thus, no one person can be blamed for problems in a couple or family relationship; instead, problematic behavior is viewed as emerging from the interactions between members of the system." This statement fits with which philosophical stance?

Accepted Answer

The statement aligns with the systemic philosophical stance, which emphasizes that issues within a group (like a family or couple) arise from the dynamics and interactions among all members, rather than being attributed to a single individual. This perspective is foundational in systemic therapy and theories, which view problems as part of a system's interrelated components.

Question 10

Which of the following descriptions best captures the postmodern spirit?

Accepted Answer

Postmodernism emphasizes the validity of multiple perspectives and narratives, rather than seeking a single "truth" or establishing hierarchies of right and wrong. Thus, weaving together different stories reflects this approach.

Question 11

Which of the following statements most accurately reflects humanistic assumptions?

Accepted Answer

Humanistic psychology emphasizes the inherent drive towards self-actualization and personal growth, focusing on the individual's subjective experience and the belief in the positive nature of humans.

Question 12

According to postmodern therapists, the meaning a person gives to a particular behavior, haircut, job, sex act, or religious view is developed through:

Accepted Answer

The answer of According to postmodern therapists, the meaning a...

Question 13

Which of the following family therapies illustrates a humanistic philosophical stance?

Accepted Answer

Satir's communication approach is rooted in a humanistic perspective, focusing on fostering growth and connection within individuals and between family members, emphasizing empathy, self-awareness, and communication.

Question 14

Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding epistemology?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following statements is TRUE...

Question 15

Postmodern theory offers many possibilities for family therapy. However, which of the following could be considered a DISADVANTAGE of applying the postmodern perspective?

Accepted Answer

Postmodern theory is known for its complex and sometimes abstract ideas, which can be challenging for therapists and clients to quickly understand. This complexity can be seen as a disadvantage in therapeutic settings where clarity and simplicity might be preferred.

Question 16

As you master one theoretical approach and deepen your understanding of its underlying __________ assumptions, you are able to understand other theories at a greater depth, as well as effectively incorporate a wider range of practices within a coherent approach to therapy.

Accepted Answer

Philosophical assumptions are the foundational beliefs or principles that underpin a theoretical approach, influencing its development and application. Understanding these assumptions helps in grasping the theory more deeply and integrating various practices coherently.

Question 17

One of the major uses of Karl Tomm's IPscope approach to conceptualizing systemic dynamics is to identify interpersonal patterns between two or more people that are:

Accepted Answer

Karl Tomm's IPscope approach is used to identify interpersonal patterns that are recurrent and relatively stable, as it focuses on understanding and mapping out the dynamics of interactions between individuals in a system.

Question 18

According to the author of the textbook, philosophical foundations of family therapies are divided into four main categories, including each of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

The four main philosophical foundations of family therapies typically include modernist, humanistic, and systemic approaches. "Realistic" is not commonly listed among these foundational categories, making it the correct choice for the exception.

Question 19

When a group of people coordinates meanings and values in order to coordinate social action or to get along with each other, this is referred to as:

Accepted Answer

Culture involves the coordination of meanings and values among a group of people, which in turn facilitates social action and interpersonal relationships.

Question 20

With regard to second-order cybernetics, which of the following statements is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Second-order cybernetics emphasizes that the observer is part of what is observed, meaning the therapist actively participates in the therapeutic process and influences it, rather than remaining neutral or outside the system.

Quiz 3: Philosophical Foundations of Family Therapy Theories