What is the main goal of family therapy in mental health?

The primary goal of family therapy in mental health is to improve communication and resolve conflicts among family members. This therapeutic approach recognizes that family dynamics and relationships play a significant role in an individual's mental health. By focusing on communication skills and helping family members express their thoughts and feelings more effectively, family therapy provides a supportive environment for addressing and resolving interpersonal issues.

Through techniques such as role-playing, active listening, and open dialogue, family therapy encourages family members to understand each other better and fosters healthier interactions. In this way, therapy not only helps to alleviate individual distress but also strengthens family cohesion, promoting a more supportive family unit that can facilitate individual healing.

Other options, such as diagnosing individual disorders, enhancing academic performance, or promoting physical health, do not align fully with the overarching aim of family therapy. While these factors might be relevant in certain contexts, they do not encapsulate the essential focus on improving relationships and communication that is central to family therapy.