Normal Functioning Family

Is it possible to determine if my family is functioning as normal?

Parents often ask this question. However, there is no easy answer because there are so many definitions of normal.

There are a few characteristics that can be associated with a functioning family. These include support, love, care for family members; security and a feeling of belonging; open communication; and making everyone feel valued, respected, and valued.

These are other characteristics to be aware of when you evaluate the performance of your family.

• Do you find humour and laughter in your family, despite all the demands of everyday life?
• Is your family clear in stating and applying rules but flexible enough to adapt to changes and new situations?
• Are each family member’s expectations reasonable, realistic, mutually accepted, and generally met?
• Are family members achieving their individual goals and meeting their personal needs?
• Are parents and children able to show genuine respect and love for each other, and even when there is disagreement, demonstrate trust, care, and concern?
• Are you able to help your family grow and change without getting upset?

Healthy Families

To create a family that is supportive and emotionally healthy, you must give thought to these questions:

• Are you a parent who treats each child as an individual? Every child is unique. Each child has a different temperament and way of seeing the world. While parents may love their children equally, they will naturally have different relationships. You should build a relationship with each child, focusing on their strengths and talents. Avoid making comparisons with siblings and friends.
• Do you have a family routine? Parents and children both benefit from having a consistent day. A pattern makes it easier for everyone to follow a schedule. Children also appreciate family traditions and rituals around holidays, birthdays, and vacations.
• Are you and your family involved in the extended family and community? Family relationships work best when they are supported and connected by their family. These relationships often require parents to make an effort to meet with others for social or civic purposes.
• What are your realistic expectations of yourself, other family members and yourself? The self-awareness, knowledge, and skills of your child are always changing. Talk to other parents to determine what you can reasonably expect of your child at each stage. Parents also have limits on their abilities and time. There is no such thing as “super parents”, but individuals trying their best.
• Do you think your time with family members is a good thing? Your time with your children and spouse should be enjoyable, relaxing, meaningful, and free from conflict.
• Are you a parent? Do you take care of yourself as a parent? It is important to have a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, exercise, and good sleep habits. You should make time for the things that you love, even if it is only a short amount of time. Children will thrive if you take care of their emotional needs. Children thrive when their parents are in a loving relationship.
• Are you willing to take moral and social responsibility for your life? Your child’s role model is you. Your values should be displayed through your actions and words.