In family systems therapy, a therapist's role is to explore and address the dynamics and interactions within the family as a whole, rather than blaming any one individual for all the problems. If a child is involved and there are issues within the family, it is not appropriate or effective for the therapist to place all the blame on the child or label them as the sole problem.
In the case of narcissistic parents, they may have a tendency to deflect responsibility and project their own issues onto others, including their children. They may be unwilling to accept any responsibility for family problems and may insist that the child is to blame. This can be challenging in therapy, but it's crucial for the therapist to remain objective, impartial, and focused on the overall family dynamics.
Therapists working with families that include narcissistic parents need to be skilled in managing such situations. They should help the family members understand their roles and contributions to the issues at hand. Additionally, they must create a safe space for the child to express their feelings and experiences without fear of retribution.
If the therapist believes that helping the child would lead to more harmonious family interactions, they should discuss this with the parents in a compassionate and non-confrontational manner. The therapist can emphasize that addressing and supporting the child's emotional well-being can benefit the entire family system. However, it's essential to approach this delicately, as narcissistic parents may be resistant to change and may not readily accept their role in the family issues.
In some cases, therapy may lead to positive changes in the family dynamics and may encourage parents to reconsider their behavior and attitudes. However, there are instances where some parents may not be willing to change or take responsibility for their actions, and this can be a significant challenge in therapy.
Ultimately, the therapist's primary focus should be on promoting the best interests of the child and facilitating healthy communication and relationships within the family. If the therapist believes that the child is at risk due to the parents' actions or attitudes, they may need to take appropriate steps to ensure the child's safety and well-being outside the therapy context, such as involving child protective services or other appropriate authorities.