In therapy with a child referred for bullying, how should the therapist respond based on Dreikur's concept of Mistaken Goals?

The correct response, which focuses on assessing and showing empathy towards the child's experiences, aligns closely with Dreikurs' concept of Mistaken Goals. According to Dreikurs, children's misbehavior is often motivated by a desire for recognition and a sense of belonging. By demonstrating empathy, the therapist helps the child feel understood and validated, which is essential in addressing the underlying emotional needs that may be driving their bullying behavior.

Empathy allows the therapist to connect with the child on a deeper level, promoting trust and openness in therapy. This connection can uncover the specific mistaken goals the child has, such as seeking attention or power through their aggressive behavior. Through this process, the therapist can help the child develop healthier strategies for obtaining their goals, fostering more appropriate social interactions and emotional resilience.

In contrast to this approach, implementing strict behavioral modifications may solely focus on changing the child's actions without addressing the emotional roots of their behavior. Encouraging apologies may seem constructive; however, without the necessary insight into the child's feelings and motivations, it may not lead to genuine change. Ignoring aggressive behavior fails to address the issue altogether, potentially exacerbating the situation rather than promoting understanding and growth.