Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

In family therapy, what does the term "sub-grouping" refer to?

1. Separate therapy sessions for individual members

2. The formation of smaller groups within the family unit

3. Family rituals and traditions

4. The family's cultural identity

The correct answer is: The formation of smaller groups within the family unit

Sub-grouping in family therapy refers to the formation of smaller groups within the family unit. This concept acknowledges that families are often composed of various smaller groups that may have distinct dynamics, relationships, and interaction patterns. These sub-groups can emerge based on age, gender, or interpersonal relationships, and they may influence overall family functioning. By identifying and exploring these sub-groups, a therapist can better understand the interactions and tensions within the family system. This approach allows for a more nuanced view of family dynamics, as it highlights how different groups within the family communicate, support one another, or may even experience conflict. The recognition of these sub-groups can facilitate targeted interventions, helping to improve communication and strengthen relationships within the family as a whole. In contrast, separate therapy sessions for individual members do not involve working with the family system as a unit and can potentially overlook the relational dynamics that sub-grouping addresses. Family rituals and traditions and the family’s cultural identity focus more on the shared experiences and values of the family rather than the internal group dynamics that sub-grouping emphasizes.