LMSW Practice Test

What is the essential difference between the treatment models of Erikson and Minuchin?

1. Erikson focuses on individual development stages, while Minuchin focuses on family systems

2. Minuchin develops a psychosocial theory, while Erikson focuses on cognitive behavior therapy

3. Erikson focuses on cognitive behavior therapy, while Minuchin focuses on structural family therapy

4. Minuchin focuses on psychosocial development, while Erikson focuses on family dynamics

The correct answer is: Erikson focuses on individual development stages, while Minuchin focuses on family systems

The essential difference between the treatment models of Erikson and Minuchin lies in their focal points. Erikson's theory emphasizes individual development, highlighting eight stages of psychosocial development that individuals navigate from infancy to late adulthood. Each stage involves a unique crisis that must be resolved, and this progression underpins a person's psychological growth and identity development throughout their life. In contrast, Minuchin's approach centers on family systems theory, which views individuals as part of the larger family unit. Minuchin developed structural family therapy, which examines the interactions, roles, and dynamics within a family structure. His work focuses on understanding how family relationships impact individual behavior and mental health, emphasizing the importance of family context in treatment. This distinction illustrates how Erikson's model relates to personal growth and identity, while Minuchin’s model is concerned with interpersonal relationships and dynamics within families. This foundational difference defines both theorists' contributions to the fields of psychology and therapy.