What is the purpose of circular questioning?

Circular questioning is a therapeutic technique used primarily in family therapy that aims to uncover the dynamics and relationships among family members. The essence of this approach is to ask questions in a way that encourages family members to reflect on their interactions and perspectives in relation to one another, rather than focusing solely on the individual's experiences or issues.

By utilizing circular questions, therapists prompt family members to explore how their behaviors, feelings, and perceptions connect with those of others in the family. This method helps reveal patterns of interaction and can illuminate underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. For example, a therapist might ask one family member how another family member’s actions affect them, which can lead to insights about the relational dynamics at play.

In contrast, other options focus on misguided goals, such as assessing the therapist's own perspective, imposing views, or manipulating individuals, which detracts from the collaborative and exploratory spirit that circular questioning seeks to promote. This technique aims to empower family members to engage in a dialogue about their relationships, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the family system as a whole.