In Family Systems Therapy, what is the goal of detriangling?

• A. Link individuals directly with one another and avoid having the third absorbed the tension
• B. Increase the number of triangle participants
• C. Encourage the therapist to take sides
• D. Eliminate all emotional expression

Answer: (A)

Detriangling in family systems therapy is about reducing triangulation by ensuring two people in a conflict connect directly with each other, so the third person isn’t pulled into the tension. When anxiety rises between two family members, a third often gets drawn in to diffuse it, which can keep the dysfunction alive. The goal is to strengthen boundaries and promote direct communication between the two, preventing the third from absorbing the conflict—often protecting a child from being involved in the quarrel.

The other options miss the mark: increasing the number of triangle participants would maintain or worsen triangulation; having the therapist take sides undermines the neutral stance essential in family systems work; and eliminating all emotional expression would hinder healthy processing and communication.