During a family assessment, the adolescent child does most of the talking. The parents agree with everything the child says. During individual interviews, each parent does not say much, and it is difficult to get information from them. They are more at ease when the adolescent is present. What might be a main treatment goal?
A) Stop life-threatening behavior
B) Disengage the child from the parental role
C) Help re-form the parental/child alliance
D) Support family members in obtaining necessary resources outside the family

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scenario suggests that the adolescent has taken on a role that is typically reserved for a parent, as indicated by their dominance in conversation and the parents' reliance on the adolescent's presence to feel at ease. This role reversal can be unhealthy for both the child and the parents. Therefore, a main treatment goal would be to disengage the child from the parental role, allowing each family member to assume appropriate roles and responsibilities.

During a Family Assessment, the Adolescent Child Does Most of the Talking