Family therapy is a form of psychological counseling that focuses on improving dynamics and communication between family members, notes the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). When one or several family members struggle with emotional or psychological issues, it can often have an affect on how an entire family interacts and functions. Over time, family members may disconnect with each other through negative interactions and ineffective communication. Family therapy aims to repair such damage and produce effective interactions.
Function
Family therapy helps families learn and practice improved methods of interacting with each other, according to the Mayo Clinic. Often short-term in nature, family therapy is very goal-orientated. With the help of a marriage and family therapist, family members are able to identify and resolve key issues that cause conflict. If a family member is experiencing a serious or chronic mental health issue, therapy may focus on how to to help all family members cope and communicate about the issue.
Family Stability and Stress
All families go through periods of crisis, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes. The death of a loved one, financial problems or a divorce all create change and instability in a family's structure and functioning. According to the AAP, one of the primary signs of family stress and instability is poor communication between family members. Many times, individuals lack the skills to express themselves clearly, or they may not not have developed the listening skills to encourage open communication.
Signs of Family Disfunction
Families in crisis may not only suffer from a lack communication, but they are often unable to resolve conflicts and have poor problem solving skills, the AAP notes. The increased emotional support provided by family therapy may lead family members to communicate more openly. In addition, family therapy offers people an opportunity to learn negotiation skills and conflict resolution, which can lead to calmer, more productive communications patterns.
Improving Communication
The AAP emphasizes the importance of communication in family dynamics. Family stress may result from an inefficient division of family responsibilities or a lack of time for effective, open communication. Parents should try to create this time on a daily basis, making an effort to listen to family members. Children often learn communication skills from adult role models, so it is important that parents consider how they express their opinions and resolve conflicts.
Expert Insight
Experts at the AAP and AAMFT acknowledge that every family is unique and that all families can experience times of conflict and upheaval. Seeking a referrals for family therapy, parenting resources or community support groups are all effective ways for a family to work through these difficulties and learn new and better coping and communication skills.
