Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

What is triangulation in the context of general systems theory?

1. To reduce tension between them, a two-person system draws in a third party

2. To reduce tension, the members of a two-person system focus their attention to a third party

3. To avoid conflict, a two-person system forms an alliance against a third person

4. To reduce conflict, two members of a three-person system assume a submissive role

The correct answer is: To reduce tension between them, a two-person system draws in a third party

Triangulation in the context of general systems theory refers to a situation where a two-person system, often characterized by conflict or tension, brings in a third party to alleviate the stress within the dyad. By introducing a third individual into the dynamic, the original pair can shift their focus and energy toward this new relationship, often to diffuse the existing tension and create a sense of balance. This process can be seen in various settings, including family therapy, where conflict between two family members may result in one or both of them engaging a third individual to communicate their feelings or to mediate the situation, thereby creating a triangle in interpersonal dynamics. In scenarios where this concept is applied, it's important to recognize that the involvement of a third party can lead to both constructive and destructive outcomes, depending on how the dynamics evolve. While this option accurately captures the essence of triangulation by highlighting the role of the third party in reducing tension, the other options misinterpret the nature of triangulation by either misrepresenting the relationships involved or suggesting a submissive role that is not intrinsic to the original concept.