Family Conflict and How to Deal With It
Family Conflict and how to deal with it. Do you find that your family often descends into very chaotic arguments? Well then not to worry, your not alone. Living as the nuclear family is not the way of the past when people lived in a tribal society. There were shared responsibilities, structure and a hierarchy of authority for the young to follow.
Now break up the tribe and place the same 4 or 5 family members in the same house to live together year after year. You will find quickly resentments, irritation, unmet expectations, anger, etc. Don’t forget to add teenage hormonal changes. Family conflict is inevitable but not necessarily severe.
Family Conflict
What Steps Can Be Taken
Steps are taken to start preventing the escalation of arguments and to calm things down before it goes to far. The idea for parents is that they must remain calm. When your teenage daughter is shouting at you that she wants space, to be left alone and that she wants the freedom to come and go as she wishes, It will be hard at times I am sure to bite your tongue. Can you be still and not raise your voice and to also not back down and give in. Many are looking for a good fight and grow increasingly infuriated by your remaining calm. Do not ever give the impression an argument is below you or that you are superior. Do not laugh and show that you are amused by it.
Family Conflict
Replacing Blame with the I-Statement
Replace the “you-statement” with the “I-statement”. During a family argument, all sorts of hidden resentments and hatreds can bubble to the surface. To prevent such escalation, avoid striking an accusatory tone. Never say “stop playing your music too loud”, or “I’m sick of the mess you always leave in the bathroom”; instead, tell the individual that your concerned how their actions are affecting you. Tell them that you can’t sleep because the music is too loud”, or have spent 20 minutes cleaning up the bathroom when you should be resting”.
Keep talking
Communication is key to resolving any conflict, whether that be between spouses, parents or children. You must keep the dialogue open. You may disapprove of your daughter’s new boyfriend or your husband’s new job, but do not throw your arms into the air and sulk. Keep talking. And talking does not mean whining or nagging! It is also crucial to choose your moment carefully. So wait until the other person is calm, peaceful, and receptive.
Listen
That does not mean be quiet and wait for the other person to finish speaking. No matter how infuriating your 13-year-old daughter may be as she screeches that she should be allowed to wear a mini skirt, you must listen. Always try to see things from the other person’s viewpoint. And do not allow your emotions to overpower your reason. Are you approachable? Are you so pre-occupied with work that your husband and children do not feel they can reach you without yelling? Remember that listening does not mean obeying; it is a sign of strength, not weakness. Re-state what you have heard.
Counselors often encourage what is known as “reflective listening”, which can be very effective so long as it is used subtly and sparingly. So, for example, imagine your son throws a tantrum because he wants to play soccer rather than visit your mother. Instead of yelling back, allow him to speak. Ask him why he doesn’t want to come and then repeat his reasons in your own words. as if you are trying to understand. He will feel respected and validated and be more likely to listen to reason. But be careful. When overdone, this technique can seem patronizing and manipulative.
Let some things slide
You may often have a good reason for picking an argument. Teenage children can be particularly trying. But do not become a nag. If you are constantly moaning and complaining, two things will happen; first, blazing arguments will become the norm, and second, people will cease to listen. Your legitimate complaints will be ignored and your voice will turn into a mere background noise.
Make use of positive body language
When an argument has run its course, and the tears have dried, use plenty of smiling, hugging, and kissing. In a bitter argument, when nasty things are said, the loving bond is temporarily severed. By hugging and kissing, you are re-affirming that bond in a way no words could ever match.
Family arguments may be inevitable, but that does make them easier to endure. No argument is pleasant of course, but arguments among those you both love and live with are especially taxing. Follow the advice offered here and, though you may still row, you will hopefully find those rows grow milder and less frequent.
Family Conflict
Let’s get Started
Start the journey of creating a happy and healthy family home. It is worth it. Seeking family counseling is very beneficial not only for the family but for your own personal growth. Call now and let’s get started.