Family Crises

What is a crisis?

• An experience of event that causes people to make changes in their lives

• Usually happens when a family experiences so much stress it’s unable to carry out its regular functions.

What kind of events would cause a crisis in a family?

• A devastating event that causes family loss – Tornado– Earthquake – Death

• A stressful event that affects the family – Relocation

• An event that occurs suddenly – Sudden accidental death – Fire

• An event that requires major adjustments – Divorce – New birth

How Crises Affect the Family

• Hinders normal family functions

• Family members go through the grieving process

• Unhealthy adjustment patterns may form

Preventing a Crisis

• Positive views on life

• Identify any source of stress

• Manage your stress

• Develop family resources – Financial – Flexibility – Communication – Negotiation – Support groups

Coping with Crises

• Coping behaviors need to be developed quickly to help the family adjust to changes taking place – Daily communication – Problem solving

• Get the information you need to deal with the event • Seek solutions to your problem • Encourage your family members

Carlos’ family knew that the construction season was almost over. Soon his dad would be out of work. Thinking about another long winter with no income was causing everyone in the Santana family to be edgy. One Saturday evening Carlos asked for a family meeting.

“Isn’t there something we can do to help Dad keep his job?” asked Carlos.

His dad shook his head. “I don’t think so son. I’m a road builder and not too many roads are built in the winter.”

“But you have so many other skills, Dad,” said Carlos. “You know how to drive those big road building machines. Couldn’t you drive trucks in the winter?”

Carlos’ dad thought quietly for a minute. “That might be worth a try, Carlos. You may have a good idea. I thought I was too old to try something new, but maybe that wouldn’t be too different for me to try.”

“They offer truck driving courses at the technical college. I saw it on a bulletin board posted at school. Do you want me to ask about it?”

Mr. Santana was beginning to catch Carlos’ excitement. “Yes, I’d be willing to look in to it,” he said.

1. How was Mr. Santana’s impending layoff a potential crisis for his family?

2. Was the source of stress for the Santana family external or internal?

3. What factors made it seem difficult for the Santana family to handle the stress and prevent the potential crisis?

4. What family resources did the Santana family use to help them prevent a crisis?