Association of Social Work Boards Masters (ASWB MSW) Practice Exam

What is a fundamental assumption of the family systems approach?

1. Families operate independently of their members

2. Each family is more than a sum of its members

3. Families avoid change at all costs

4. Families have no influence on individual growth

The correct answer is: Each family is more than a sum of its members

The fundamental assumption of the family systems approach is that each family is more than a sum of its members. This option acknowledges the interconnectedness and interdependence of family members, emphasizing that changes in one member can affect the entire system. Option A, that families operate independently of their members, is incorrect because it disregards the reciprocal and interactive nature of family relationships. Option C, that families avoid change at all costs, is incorrect because it assumes that families resist change, when in reality, they may adapt and change in response to internal or external stressors. Option D, that families have no influence on individual growth, is incorrect because it neglects the powerful impact of family dynamics and relationships on individual development and well-being.