Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What are the two models used to conceptualize families in the Calgary Family Assessment Model?

1. Structural and Functional

2. Cognitive and Behavioral

3. Physical and Emotional

4. Dynamic and Static

The correct answer is: Structural and Functional

The Calgary Family Assessment Model (CFAM) is integral to nursing practice, particularly in understanding and assessing families. The two primary models within CFAM are the structural and functional models. The structural model focuses on understanding the composition of the family, including roles, relationships, and their arrangement. This model outlines how family members are connected to one another as well as the broader systems that influence family dynamics, such as extended relatives and social networks. It considers aspects like family hierarchy and boundaries, providing insight into how these structures can affect the family's functioning and relationships. On the other hand, the functional model examines how family members interact with each other and their roles within various scenarios. It assesses the family's behaviors, communication patterns, and the ways in which family members support each other while coping with stressors. This model is essential for evaluating the family's adaptive mechanisms and overall effectiveness in achieving both individual and collective goals. These complementary models enable healthcare providers to gain a comprehensive understanding of family dynamics, guiding interventions and support tailored to the unique needs of each family. Therefore, the option highlighting the structural and functional models accurately reflects the CFAM framework used in nursing practice.