LMSW Practice Test

What major issue might a couple be facing if the wife describes her husband's feelings and behaviors, and the husband smiles when she agrees with him?

1. Depression

2. Enmeshment

3. Role confusion

4. A dystonic marital relationship

The correct answer is: Enmeshment

Enmeshment is a situation that occurs when there are blurred boundaries within a relationship, often characterized by a lack of autonomy among partners. In this context, the wife's description of her husband's feelings and behaviors suggests that she may be internalizing his emotions and mirroring his responses, which indicates they may not have distinct individual identities. When the husband smiles in agreement, it signifies approval of her reflection, further reinforcing the interconnectedness in their emotional states rather than fostering individual perspectives. In an enmeshed relationship, partners often experience difficulty with independent decision-making, as one partner may overly rely on the other for emotional cues and validation. The scenario implies that the couple might struggle with their autonomy, leading to a dynamic where one person's feelings dominate the relationship, thus causing tension and a lack of individual growth. This familial pattern can be detrimental to healthy communication and relationship satisfaction, making enmeshment a significant issue in the couple's interactions.