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| Why do some families fall apart
when faced with adversity, while others thrive and
become stronger? This is an exploration of the qualities
of those resilient families. It is also a framework
for families to establish and maintain these strengths.
Several qualities have been identified as directly
related to family strengths. These qualities include
the following: Communication, Togetherness, Sharing
Activities, Affection, Support and Acceptance, and
Commitment. |
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| This quality is considered a strength
when a family interacts with each other frequently
and predominately in an open, positive, honest manner.
Some families also mentioned humor as a strength
in their communication. |
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| The invisible ‘glue’
that bonds the family and gives the family members
a sense of belonging. An important ingredient to
this ‘glue’ is sharing similar values,
beliefs and morals. |
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| Strong families like to share and
do activities with each other—activities such
as sports, camping, playing games, reading stories,
socializing together, and sharing hobbies and holidays. |
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| This quality is considered a strength
when family members show love, care, concern and
interest for each other on a regular basis through
words, hugs, kisses and thoughtfulness. Expressions
of affection are often ritualized in families—for
example with greetings and farewells, bedtime story
reading , and during such celebrations such as birthdays
and holidays. |
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| Assisting, encouraging, reassuring
each other and looking out for each other. It is
a strength when family members feel equally comfortable
to offer or ask for support. |
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| Means showing respect, appreciation,
and understanding for each other’s individuality
and uniqueness. Acceptance is a strength when family
members acknowledge, value and tolerate each other’s
differences, and when the members allow each other
space. |
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Showing dedication and loyalty
toward the family as a whole. Strong families
often view the well being of the family as first
priority. Commitment is expressed in many ways.
To the family, the partner relationship, children,
the extended family, and the community.
These factors can provide a basic framework to
use in building a strong family. When crisis comes,
the families that demonstrate the ability to pull
together rather than apart, reframing/restating
the crisis in a more positive and manageable light;
and seeking help when it is needed.
Remember that strong healthy families form the
best social welfare system there can ever be,
and strengthening families represents a very sound
investment in America’s future. |
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Marriage
& Relationships
