During a clinical assessment of a 16-year-old patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, the therapist observes that the patient's mother frequently interrupts to answer questions on her daughter's behalf. Furthermore, the father states, "We don't believe in privacy in our house; we operate as a single, combined mind with no individual boundaries."
According to Minuchin’s family systems theory of anorexia nervosa, which characteristic of the family dynamic is best illustrated by this scenario?
Overprotection, because the parents are actively monitoring and controlling all of the patient's communications to shield her from external harm.
Enmeshment, because the boundaries between family members are highly blurred, leading to a lack of personal autonomy and individual identity for the patient.
Rigidity, because the family is struggling to adapt to the developmental milestone of their daughter's adolescence, preferring to keep childhood rules.
Conflict avoidance, because the family insists on a unified front to prevent any underlying disagreements or family tensions from being voiced.
Practise AQA A Level Psychology Psychological explanations for anorexia nervosa with exam-style questions for A Level Psychology. 30 questions, matched to the AQA A Level Psychology (7182) specification and written in Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.
