Association of Social Work Boards Bachelor (ASWB) Practice Exam

In family therapy, a teen's conduct behavior is often viewed as a function to maintain family system balance. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of family members and suggests that behaviors exhibited by a teenager are not just individual acts of rebellion or independence but rather serve a purpose within the family system. When a teenager displays conduct issues, it can indicate underlying tensions or dysfunctions within the family dynamics. For example, these behaviors might emerge as a way to express unmet needs, to draw attention to issues in the family, or to balance roles and responsibilities among family members. In this context, the therapist can work with the family to identify the root causes of the teen's behavior, facilitating healthier communication and relationships. This understanding supports the idea that behaviors must be analyzed within the context of the family rather than only through the lens of the individual, highlighting the reciprocal influences among family members. Consequently, this perspective allows for a more comprehensive approach to addressing not just the behavior itself but the dynamics that contribute to it, ultimately promoting family healing and growth.