Question

An established client discloses to her social worker that several years ago, she had an affair and subsequently had a child. The client confessed to her husband and the two have been raising the child as their own since then. The client says that she never told anyone else and that she and her husband have not discussed the paternity of the child since her confession. Which family therapy concept does this illustrate?

A. Family rules
B. Enmeshed boundaries
C. Family secrets
D. Emotional cutoff

Answer 1

The concept illustrated in this scenario is Family Secrets, where the client discloses a hidden affair and child to her social worker.

Step-by-step explanation:

The family therapy concept that is illustrated in this scenario is Family Secrets. In this case, the client discloses a secret to her social worker, revealing that she had an affair and had a child as a result. This secret has been kept hidden from others, including the couple's child. Family secrets can have a significant impact on the dynamics and functioning of a family as they can create tension, distrust, and affect the emotional well-being of its members.