What is a primary goal of the Engagement/Motivation phase of FFT?

What is a primary goal of the Engagement/Motivation phase of FFT?

• A. Goals are to escalate discipline and punishment.
• B. Goals are to reduce dropout rates and establish alliances.
• C. Goals are to withdraw from the family.
• D. Goals are to emphasize academic performance exclusively.

Answer: (B)

In FFT, the Engagement/Motivation phase is all about bringing the family and youth into a collaborative relationship and setting the stage for change. The primary goal is to keep families in treatment by reducing dropout risk and building a positive working alliance that motivates continued participation. The therapist works to remove barriers to attendance, clarify roles and expectations, and boost readiness for change through empathy, validation, and practical problem-solving to align goals. This isn’t about increasing discipline, withdrawing from the family, or focusing only on academics; those approaches wouldn’t foster engagement. Instead, establishing trust and a shared plan prepares everyone for the next phases where the real work on family dynamics and behavior change can begin.

In FFT, the Engagement/Motivation phase is all about bringing the family and youth into a collaborative relationship and setting the stage for change. The primary goal is to keep families in treatment by reducing dropout risk and building a positive working alliance that motivates continued participation. The therapist works to remove barriers to attendance, clarify roles and expectations, and boost readiness for change through empathy, validation, and practical problem-solving to align goals. This isn’t about increasing discipline, withdrawing from the family, or focusing only on academics; those approaches wouldn’t foster engagement. Instead, establishing trust and a shared plan prepares everyone for the next phases where the real work on family dynamics and behavior change can begin.