Which term describes a pattern that maintains symptoms through power moves and alliances?

Which term describes a pattern that maintains symptoms through power moves and alliances?

• A. Milan Assessment
• B. Milan symptom development
• C. Dirty games
• D. Behavioral tasks

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is a pattern in which families keep symptoms going through calculated power moves and shifting alliances. In this framework, a family member or subgroup forms coalitions, uses strategic manipulation, and creates dynamics that preserve the problem rather than resolve it. The label that captures this phenomenon is dirty games. By naming these covert tactics, therapists can target the relational patterns rather than blaming individuals, work to disrupt the alliances, and reduce the symptom’s hold on the system. Other terms in the choices refer to different concepts (an assessment approach, an unclear term, or general behavioral tasks) and don’t specifically describe the relational pattern of sustaining symptoms through power plays and alliances.

The idea being tested is a pattern in which families keep symptoms going through calculated power moves and shifting alliances. In this framework, a family member or subgroup forms coalitions, uses strategic manipulation, and creates dynamics that preserve the problem rather than resolve it. The label that captures this phenomenon is dirty games. By naming these covert tactics, therapists can target the relational patterns rather than blaming individuals, work to disrupt the alliances, and reduce the symptom’s hold on the system. Other terms in the choices refer to different concepts (an assessment approach, an unclear term, or general behavioral tasks) and don’t specifically describe the relational pattern of sustaining symptoms through power plays and alliances.