Despite the existence of a number of potentially useful instruments for assessing family
functioning, most social workers rely on idiosyncratic indicators when assessing clients' families.
This article demonstrates the applicability of a classification system for the Family Environment
Scale (FES) that requires no computer skill or mathematical expertise. Data from a randomly
selected sample of 58 client families were subjected to the classification system, which yielded
five distinct groups and accounted for 83% of the sample. When combined with clinical
observations, the descriptions of the groups can aid in planning interventions and organizing
services.
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