Which theory supports the idea that an individual's illness can affect the entire family?

• A. Maslow's hierarchy
• B. Social Cognitive Theory
• C. Family Systems Theory
• D. Health Belief Model

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that families function as an interconnected system, so illness in one member can reshape the whole unit. Family Systems Theory treats the family as an emotional and relational network where each member’s behavior influences others, and problems arise from interaction patterns rather than a single symptom. Illness can disrupt roles, routines, and boundaries: a parent may become the caregiver, children may take on new responsibilities, communication can suffer, and the overall emotional climate can shift. The theory focuses on understanding and adjusting these family dynamics to restore balance, not just treating the patient. That makes it the best fit for explaining how one person’s illness can affect everyone in the family. By comparison, other theories center on individual factors—Maslow on personal needs, Social Cognitive Theory on learning and self-efficacy, and the Health Belief Model on beliefs about health behaviors—without inherently addressing the family system.