THE CHILD AND THE SYMPTOM: A MIRROR OF THE DYSFUNCTIONALITY OF THE FAMILY RELATIONSHIP

Abstract

This article aims to understand the impact of dysfunctional family dynamics on children's behavior, highlighting how these dynamics can lead children to express symptoms that reflect imbalances in the family system. The research is justified by the need to analyze children's symptoms as manifestations of family tensions, rather than considering the child's problems in isolation. Based on the systemic approach, the study investigates how the child can assume the role of "symptom" in a dysfunctional family system, indicating the need for intervention to restore relational balance. The research was carried out through a narrative review of the literature, focusing on scientific articles, books and other documents published between 1979 and 2024, addressing the themes "Symptom", "Children", "Family", "Systemic Psychology" and "Child Health". This qualitative approach allowed a critical analysis of the factors that connect children's mental health to dysfunctional family dynamics. The results indicate that the child, when manifesting symptoms, acts as an indicator of family maladjustments, seeking to stabilize the system. Thus, systemic family therapy is an effective approach to redefine roles, strengthen the child's healthy emotional development and restore family balance.