There is a lot of emphasis in building a healthy family. Healthy families produce healthy individuals. Dysfunctional families are said to be the cause of individuals with problems. Even with the reported breakdown of the family unit, there are still many strong families. Family members have the ability to grow closer to one another. The key to having a strong family is learning to respect one another and accept each others differences.
Feelings and communication
Strong families have an emphasis on communication. One example is conversation at the dinner table. Strong families have meals together and discuss their days and share their lives with one another. They learn to appreciate each others differences. Individuals in strong families are allowed to get angry at each other but still know they are loved. A parent may tell a child that they are disappointed and angry with their actions but love them in spite of it. In a healthy family, members are allowed to communicate without fear of rejection.
Interaction with friends
It is important to have friends and outside interests. Healthy families invite others in and learn to ask others for advice. Healthy families get involved in activities together, such as church, in order to share their lives with others. They allow good influences into their homes. It is encouraged that family members have friends that they can lean on when they need advice and an outside opinion.
Growing up
Growing up and leaving home is seen as the next step towards family. Children grow up and leave home, raise their own families and extend the healthy family. Children are able to leave and venture out on their own without feelings of guilt. Parents in healthy families encourage their children to spread their wings. The parent-child relationship turns into friendship as a child grows and becomes independent.
