Alicia and Chris have been arguing a lot at home and are contemplating divorce. Cooper hears them arguing but hides in the hallway so they don't know he can hear them. One day the principal from Cooper's school calls the parents in for a conference and reports that Cooper has been acting out in school and hit another boy during an argument. The family seeks therapy at the suggestion of the principal. Alicia starts the session by saying they have come for help because Cooper is having problems at school. Which of the following terms would describe the role of Cooper?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cooper is described as the "identified patient" because he is the family member identified by the family or others as having the symptom or problem, leading them to seek therapy. This term does not imply that Cooper is the cause of the family's problems, but rather that he is the one manifesting symptoms or behaviors that prompt the family to seek help.

Alicia and Chris Have Been Arguing a Lot at Home