Strong Families

6 CHARACTERISTICS OF STRONG FAMILIES
Have you ever wondered what makes a family strong? Have you looked at some families that seem to have it all together, there seems to be unity; they’re not arguing all the time; and they enjoy being together?
When we had young children, we used to watch other families and see what was working for them. When we saw a family that really stood out as healthy and strong, we would ask the parents what their secret to success was – what had worked for them. Then we would try and apply it to our family situation if at all possible. This was very successful for us, though we wish we knew more!
There have been many surveys completed on the breakdown of the family unit. But recently it has come to our attention of a positive evaluation done on the family. Since 1974, around 24,000 family members from 35 nations have been interviewed in more than 60 studies. Regardless of culture, social class or composition of the families, 6 characteristics have been identified as to what makes a strong family. This is exciting to us, and this is the findings:

1. Strong families demonstrate appreciation and affection for each other.
2. Strong families trust each other and can depend on one another.
3. Strong families practice positive communication.
4. Strong families spend enjoyable, quality time together.
5. Strong families are united by a shared faith or shared values.
6. Strong families are able to manage stress and crisis effectively.

These 6 characteristics may seem pretty obvious and simple to some – and to others an impossible feat! Sadly, many adults have not had the examples, experience or skills to put these 6 characteristics into practise in a family. Healthy families need to encourage other ‘not so healthy’ families onward. More educational and empowering programmes need to be available for families. We want to be part of the solution. Do you?