Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

In family treatment, who is referred to as the identified patient?

1. The family member with symptoms reflecting the family's pain

2. The one who causes most family conflicts

3. The least communicative member of the family

4. The family member who initiates therapy

The correct answer is: The family member with symptoms reflecting the family's pain

The term "identified patient" refers specifically to the family member who exhibits symptoms that reflect the overall distress and pain of the family system. This individual often becomes the focal point of treatment, as their behavioral or emotional struggles may highlight deeper issues within the family dynamics. This concept emphasizes the understanding that the identified patient's symptoms are not merely personal problems but are often manifestations of the collective struggles and relational patterns within the family. By addressing the needs of the identified patient in therapy, practitioners can also work toward healing and improving the relationships and communication patterns among all family members. In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of family dynamics. The individual causing most conflicts or the least communicative member may play significant roles within the family's interactions, but they are not necessarily the ones whose symptoms represent the family's collective issues. Likewise, the family member initiating therapy can vary widely and does not explicitly denote someone who is experiencing symptoms reflective of the family's pain. The identified patient is specifically a way to address and engage with the complexities of family treatment in a structured manner.