In the open system description, a family is said to:

In the open system description, a family is said to:

• A. Invite external influence and have flexible boundaries
• B. Isolate from outside influences
• C. Have rigid boundaries
• D. Avoid any change

Answer: (A)

Open-system families are defined by ongoing exchange with their environment and boundaries that are flexible and permeable. This means the family readily takes in information, resources, and influences from outside—think of support from extended family, school, community services, or cultural norms—and adjusts rules, roles, or routines in response. Such adaptability helps the family respond to life changes, maintain functioning, and grow stronger. In contrast, choosing isolation or rigid, impermeable boundaries describes closed or rigid systems, which resist outside input and can stagnate, making change harder rather than easier.

Open-system families are defined by ongoing exchange with their environment and boundaries that are flexible and permeable. This means the family readily takes in information, resources, and influences from outside—think of support from extended family, school, community services, or cultural norms—and adjusts rules, roles, or routines in response. Such adaptability helps the family respond to life changes, maintain functioning, and grow stronger. In contrast, choosing isolation or rigid, impermeable boundaries describes closed or rigid systems, which resist outside input and can stagnate, making change harder rather than easier.