Which principle is central to Carl Whitaker's approach in experiential family therapy?

The central principle in Carl Whitaker's approach to experiential family therapy is indeed the focus on the entire family. Whitaker emphasized the importance of understanding family dynamics and interactions as a whole, rather than treating individuals in isolation. This holistic perspective allows therapists to explore how family members relate to each other, their emotional expressions, and the patterns that emerge within the family system.

By engaging the entire family, Whitaker aimed to create a more authentic and spontaneous therapeutic environment where members could express their emotions and experiences. This process fosters connection and deeper understanding between family members, leading to transformative changes within the familial relationships. Experiential therapy prioritizes emotional experiences and personal connections, contrasting approaches that might focus solely on cognitive restructuring or behavioral modifications.

The other options reflect methodologies that do not align as closely with Whitaker's emphasis on relational dynamics, emotional expression, and the experiential aspects of therapy. Therefore, the focus on the entire family is a defining characteristic of Whitaker's therapeutic approach.