What is the primary focus of Marriage and Family Therapy?

The primary focus of Marriage and Family Therapy is on improving relationships and addressing issues within the family unit. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the interactions between family members and the dynamics that contribute to healthier relationships. Therapists work with families and couples to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen emotional bonds, all aimed at fostering a supportive environment where individuals can thrive.

While treating individual mental health disorders can sometimes be a component of family therapy, it's typically done within the context of how these issues affect family dynamics rather than focusing solely on the individual's condition in isolation. Similarly, conducting genetic research on family patterns or promoting community health initiatives do not fall within the primary objectives of Marriage and Family Therapy, which is centered on the relational and systemic aspects of family structure and functioning.