Defining Conflict as a Demonstration of the Family Problem

For many reasons, the therapist needs to decide when to encourage and when to discourage open conflict and needs to control its process. When conflictual families show disagreement, they often end up feeling powerless. In some situations, as in spouse-battering, arguing may re-traumatize or frighten the family. Sometimes, uncontrolled conflict leads to members' leaving treatment. The therapist often feels ineffective. Further, permitting conflict to escalate in the session may tacitly condone or reinforce it. Lastly, it promotes a non-rational, non-observing mode of behavior that is not oriented towards change.