Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

From a structural family systems perspective, a social worker would focus on what in a client who is dependent on her parents?

1. Enhancing family connections

2. Strengthening intergenerational boundaries

3. Encouraging independence from family

4. Promoting family therapy sessions

The correct answer is: Strengthening intergenerational boundaries

From a structural family systems perspective, focusing on strengthening intergenerational boundaries is essential for addressing dependency issues. This approach highlights the importance of clear boundaries between different levels of a family structure—specifically between parents and children. In cases where a client exhibits dependency on her parents, there may be blurred boundaries that hinder the development of autonomy. Strengthening these intergenerational boundaries allows for healthier interactions within the family, promoting the client's gradual independence while still maintaining supportive relationships. By addressing and redefining relationships and roles within the family, the social worker helps the client understand her own position within the family dynamics, ultimately encouraging personal growth and a reduction in dependency. This method contrasts with solely enhancing family connections or promoting family therapy sessions, which may not directly resolve the underlying dependency issues. Encouraging independence from family, while important, would not be the immediate focus within this theoretical framework, as the emphasis is on restructuring the family dynamics that contribute to such dependency.