ABSTRACT
The assessment of family functioning from a behavioural perspective focuses upon the efficiency of the household as a problem-solving unit. Household members suffering from major disorders have a more extensive interview that seeks to target one or two key problems experienced as a result of the disorder. This problem analysis examines the strengths and weaknesses of individual and family problem-solving efforts. Faced with daily stresses of major proportions, such people may consider the goals as trivial. However, the ability to focus on small, yet constructive, steps towards a better quality of life may have profound consequences for many people who are coping with highly stressed lives. Households vary enormously in the amount of time and effort they expend on collaborative problem solving and goal achievement functions. Some households organize regular times to discuss important issues relating to the quality of life of all members; others provide minimal structure, but allow members to arrange discussions whenever needed.
