The Pillars of a Strong Family Part III: Handling Conflict

Alright, now we are communicating more effectively, and we are focusing on creating positive interactions, but what about when unexpected things happen? Your 9 year old is suddenly refusing to do their homework, or maybe your teenager snuck out all night? Maybe great aunt Faye unexpectedly passed away, or another unexpected tragedy has hit your home? The third pillar in creating a healthy family is having healthy conflict resolution skills. Having the skills to communicate and interact when things are going well are not enough to have a healthy, happy, strong family. As a family group, it’s important that you are able to navigate unexpected events and stressors with respect and dignity for all family members.

Life happens to all of us, and we certainly can’t plan or be prepared for everything. But we can have the basic skills necessary to continue to work together and communicate when the road gets rough. I’ve said it before but this pillar is work as well, but it can prevent us from making a tough situation even worse!

So once coping skills and basic communication have been learned, and the family is engaging in positive activities, we can begin handling conflicts in sessions. This is where we can practice being honest without being hurtful, and asking for what we need without bringing the guilt or shame. Those we love hurt us, but it’s important that we learn to respond to that in a constructive manner, rather than furthering the cycle of hurt.

So what are you waiting for? Call me today to begin your journey to having a happier, healthier, stronger family.