You are seeing a family for family therapy. Arjun and Kate are having difficulty in their marriage since their oldest daughter left for college. Whenever there is a fight, Kate vents her frustrations to her younger son. According to family systems therapy, what behavior is Kate and Arjun engaging in to stabilize their relationship?

Choice A Reason:

"Why do you think you might have cancer when your diagnosis is a benign condition?” This response may come across as dismissive and could make the client feel unheard. It does not acknowledge the client's concerns and may discourage open communication.

Choice B Reason:

"I'm hearing that you are concerned that might turn out that you have cancer.” This response demonstrates active listening and acknowledges the client's expressed concern. It encourages the client to share their feelings and provides an opportunity for further discussion. Option B shows empathy and supports the client's emotional needs during a stressful time.

Choice C Reason:

"I'm looking at your chart here and I don't see any reason for you to worry about that.” This response focuses on the medical chart and might minimize the client's emotional concerns. It does not address the client's feelings and may create a sense of invalidation.

Choice D Reason:

"I think that's something you need to discuss with your provider.” While it directs the client to the provider, it doesn't acknowledge the client's emotions or provide immediate support. It may seem like a deflection rather than an empathetic response.

Choice A Reason:

Wife/mother is incorrect. The wife/mother expresses that she is not skillful in conflict resolution, but her concerns are related to her own abilities rather than exhibiting specific problematic behaviors that are disruptive or distressing to the family system.

Choice B Reason:

Daughter is correct. The daughter, who is rebellious and in academic trouble, is most likely to be listed as the "identified patient" because her behavior is presenting visible challenges and concerns. In family systems therapy, addressing and understanding the dynamics surrounding the identified patient can provide insights into the broader family issues and interactions.

Choice C Reason:

Son is incorrect. The son is conflicted about where to attend college, which is a common developmental decision. While it may cause some family stress, it doesn't necessarily indicate the presence of disruptive or problematic behavior warranting the label of "identified patient."

Choice D Reason:

Husband/father is incorrect. The husband/father is skeptical of the idea that talking can be helpful, but skepticism or reluctance to engage in therapy does not necessarily make him the identified patient. His behavior doesn't present as a disruptive symptom within the family.