 A family can be described as a group of people that can be made up of partners, children, parents , grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles. The definition of a family is a group of people who share common ancestors. (Dictionary, 2020) However, to some the definition can take on a different meaning and has nothing to do with blood and ancestry but instead based on love, support, and compassion values which we value incredibly. A family provides a safe space for personal growth and a safe environment of influence, laying the foundations to be able to form other relationships we long for in life like friendships and romantic partnerships. (Admin, 2020) Over time the family dynamic has changed and now takes on many forms, Nuclear family: consists of 2 parents and children Single parent family: consists of 1 parent raising 1 or more children Extended family: these families consist of 2 or more adults who are related by blood or marriage living in the same home, these relatives will work towards common goals like child raising. Childless family: consists of two partners who live together but do not have children Stepfamilies: these families are generally two families post-divorce or separation blending to create a new family unit The grandparent family: this style of family consists of the grandparents raising the children and this can occur for many reasons. (Blessing, 2020) So, given the importance of family and its members, when a conflict occurs it impacts the whole family. Therefore, it is imperative to be proactive in resolving these issues, if not there can be instances of isolation, exclusion, and negative confrontations. How do we resolve family conflicts and maintain the family dynamic? Communication is the key, it enables each family member to express their wants, needs and concerns and often, when communication breaks down conflicts arise. Communication in the family unit needs to be nurtured and maintained , how do we do that ? here are some steps that can be taken to improve family communication. 1. Schedule Family time – this is particularly important as life can be incredibly busy, but scheduling in an activity that involves the whole family can solidify those relationships. 2. Establish family routines – these can be a weekly movie, a bike ride or walk or a book before bedtime for children these activities also generate opportunities for family member interaction and stability 3. Eat meals together – try to ensure the family eats meals together at least a few times a week this creates a positive experience for the family to look forward to, and conversation is often generated in a comfortable less confronting environment 4. Allow for 1 on 1 time – it is important to spend 1 on 1 time with different members of the family it enables deeper connections and opportunities for communication and conversation especially for those members who are not as comfortable opening up in a group environment. 5. Be an active listener – this is particularly important, when you are listening to a family member give them 100% of your focus and attention, it can be beneficial to summarize what they have said and repeat it back to them this shows your understanding and attention. 6. Attack the problem, not each other – when conflict arises focus on the problem not the family member involved, show unconditional love for the person involved while still communicating your concerns over the issue. 7. Show kindness and appreciation – this can help promote positive emotions among family members and is incredibly meaningful and powerful. 8. Stay connected through technology – although we generally want to separate ourselves from technology while communicating it can be an important tool to keep in touch with our loved ones when distance or less in person interactions are viable. (G, 2020) References: Admin. (2020, June 30th). Core Aspect. Retrieved from Core Aspect : https://coreaspect.org/reasons-family-much-important-life/ Blessing, M. (2020, June 30th). Lifestyle. Retrieved from Love to know: https://family.lovetoknow.com/about-family-values/types-family-structures Dictionary, Y. (2020, June 30th). Your dictionary. Retrieved from Your dictionary: https://www.yourdictionary.com/family G, A. (2020, June 30th). 8 Steps to better family communication. Retrieved from Froddo: http://www.froddo.com/8-steps-to-better-family-communication |
Lily Phan PsychologyLily has almost a decade of field experience working with children and parents, adolescents, adults, and families in private practice, hospital, and community settings. Lily is passionate about her work as a psychologist and believes in the value of therapy not only for reducing symptoms and improving mental health, but also for clients to learn skills and tools to create more fulfilling and meaningful lives. Archives
February 2021
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