Family Life
Family StructureNuclear – a couple and their biological or adopted children
Single-parent – one parent raising the children as a result of death or divorce
Blended – The single parent(s) remarry. The step-parent may have children of their own, resulting in step-siblings
Extended – Other relatives, such as grandparents or cousins, live with the family
(Circle your family type)
Trends in FamiliesDivorce rate has increased
Divorce is most common in teenage couples
More Mom’s are workingMoving is more common
Family Life CycleThe family life cycle shows the basic stages that families go through in life (Circle the stage(s) your family is in)
BeginningCouple newly married, no kids
Parental/Child rearingCouple becomes parents
LaunchingChildren leave home for work/college
Empty NestStage after kids leave the house and before retirement
RetirementCouple done working and have more leisure time
Family RolesBasic Needs: Food, clothing, shelterEmotional Needs: Love, acceptanceIntellectual Needs: Supportive of education/homework, etc.
Socialization Needs: Teaching Appropriate Behavior
Family Member Role
Family HistoryWhat are your family traditions? Where are you from? Describe the members of your family.
Family ConflictFamily conflict occurs when family members disagree with one another
Major conflict can be a result of parents and children not agreeing
Conflict can also occur when families merge or blend
Families need to find a balance in work/rest/play
To solve problems, families need to:Tackle problems togetherLook for positive solutions in all situationsGet help when needed
(How does your family resolve conflict?)
Family IssuesFamilies are codependent when they allow one family member’s problem to control everyone’s behavior
Families should never cover for a member who has a serious problem, such as alcohol or drug dependency
Abuse can be emotional as well as physical
Family ValuesFamily members need to talk about their feelings
Each family member should assume their fair share of responsibilities around the house
Families strengthen through:Establishing traditionsSpending time togetherWorking toward common goalsGood communication , i.e. family calendars with schedules
Show respect for one another i.e. knock on closed doors
(What is important to your family?)