Structural Family Therapy

What is the core belief of Structural Family Therapy?

Individual symptoms arise from dysfunctional family structure and interactional patterns.

Who founded Structural Family Therapy?

Salvador Minuchin.

What are subsystems?

Smaller groupings within the family (spousal, parental, sibling) with specific functions.

What are boundaries in family systems?

Rules defining closeness and separation between family members or subsystems.

What happens in rigid boundaries?

Leads to disengagement and emotional distance.

What happens in diffuse boundaries?

Leads to enmeshment and loss of individuality.

What is a healthy boundary?

Clear but flexible, allowing both connection and autonomy.

What does joining mean in Structural Family Therapy?

Therapist aligns with the family system to build rapport and trust.

What is mimesis?

Therapist mirrors the family’s style or affect to join the system.

What is boundary making?

Intervention to adjust closeness or distance between family members.

What is unbalancing?

Therapist temporarily allies with one member to realign power or hierarchy.

What is enactment?

Family acts out a conflict in session so interaction patterns can be observed and changed.

What is reframing?

Reinterpreting behavior to change its meaning and reduce defensiveness.

What is the therapist’s role in Structural Therapy?

Directive leader who restructures interactions and strengthens hierarchy.

What is the primary goal of Structural Family Therapy?

Restructure the family system to restore clear boundaries and hierarchy.