Nuclear family versus community family structure
The world is continually evolving and as is our understanding of family structure. While just a couple of decades ago the nuclear family was the only acceptable successful family, now we know that our ancestors’ words of “it takes a village” rings just as true. So, whatever your family dynamic is, may be the best option for you. In this post we will have a look at modern family and how psychologists can help with transitions.
What is a nuclear family?
The nuclear family was long since promoted by pop culture. The ideal family ideal of a white picket fence with a mom and dad. However, the world has evolved and opened our community acceptance of other family dynamics. Often, families now are a blending of people and traditions. With a high divorce rate and a growing appreciation of the LGBTQ+ community, families look anything but traditional. What research has found that the traditional mother and father ideal is not necessarily what makes a happy childhood. More vital in the family, is the love, honesty, and support provided for the children. Growing divorce rates are not even necessarily bad, instead relationships that previously may have stayed in abuse and neglect can now end. Parents can find better suited partners and the family grows.
What is the modern family?
The modern family unit is as dynamic as one’s personality. Relationships change and grow, and as time passes, your own family may transform. Breakups, divorces, coming out, or transitioning are all difficult stages within people’s lives. Attending therapy can be a great way to provide support to the youngest or most vulnerable members of the family. An open and accepting atmosphere can nurture strong relationships and positive impacts on a child’s growth. Instead of the stigma of divorce ruining families, you can change the outcome by everyone moving towards a happier future. Communication with your children can teach them about healthy relationships, self-value, and positive change.
What makes a successful family?
The key things that make a successful family and a healthy environment for children are connection, belongingness, and community, at the same time, that is balanced by privacy, solitude, and autonomy. There is no longer a template of who should be in a happy family. But there is greater understanding of the importance of every individual’s mental health. With each member of the family supported through their issues or mental health struggles, the unit can work better. Extended family, multigenerational family, blended family, or families on the spectrum. Are all formulas that can create a thriving environment.
How can you support your family?
A relationship is done of the hardest things you will ever do, a family dynamic must certainly be number 1. There are so many aspects that one ends o consider when juggling the lives, emotions, and baggage’s of a whole collection of humans. If you are ever struggling, a professional therapist can help you with tools and a guideline on how to proceed. If your family is going through changes, growing, or transforming, a psychologist can help ease the journey. There is no right or wrong way a family looks like. It with a trained professional, you can better support your children and loved ones. Even if you are thriving in your own life, a family is something that requires work and effort. So, take the time to learn, grow, and support the people around you.