What is a Dysfunctional Family
Managing Dysfunction
Types of dysfunctional families
Addiction
Either one parent, both or other family members have strong addictions towards drugs, alcohol, or gambling. which strongly influences the family well being.
Possession
One or both the parents consider their children to be their possessions. They feel that they can exploit physically, emotionally and also financially.
Ideology
Parents have a stronghold over children. the belief that guides an individual, social movement, institution, class, or large group.
Violence
One of the parents or other family members shows physical or mental violence. When children witness all types of drama right from a tender age they continue to live in fear of physical and mental violence into adult age.
Pacification
When one or both parents reward bad behavior in one child. And punish another child’s good behavior to maintain peace and avoid conflict.
Simple tips to deal with dysfunctional family members
Don’t expect a positive response.
This is the rule of thumb to help you effectively deal with dysfunctional family members. You need to give up all types of positive expectations. This is actually the basic nature of any type of dysfunctional family. No matter what you do, you will get the blame and accused of your efforts and actions. Therefore, do not expect anything positive from your dysfunctional family or loved ones.
Keep calm.
It is necessary to keep calm when you are in a conversation with your family member or someone close to you. However, this is easier said than done. It is not always possible to keep calm if your history with your loved one is that of a negative nature. Furthermore, it is necessary that you practice some relaxation techniques to keep calm. Taking deep breaths before engaging in a conversation is also helpful.
You cannot change your family.
You need to realize the universal truth that it is not possible for you to change your family members. Their thoughts, views, thinking, their way of communicating, will not change. Once you realize this, you will be in a better position to deal with your dysfunctional family member.
Think before you speak.
Many normal family discussions may take a sudden unfavorable turn. Family members may start yelling and the environment may suddenly become unfriendly. To avoid this, don’t participate in the discussion at all and avoid accusing other people. Yet, it does not mean that you cannot voice your opinions and become a part of constructive criticism. But you have to realize that your opinions and criticism may not always be taken on a positive note.
Keep things civil as far as possible.
You have to understand that conversations cannot always be friendly. Be an active participant in an unhealthy conversation can ask for more problems. Always maintain your cool. And make conscious efforts to take the conversation in a positive direction. As much as possible, try your best to be civil and keep your tone soft.
Additional tips
Walk away when things get out of control.
It may so happen that even after trying hard, things may not turn for the better. Discussions may turn into accusations and yelling starts. You may try to direct the discussions to a more constructive and positive one. But unfortunately, dysfunctional family members simply do not want this to happen. Therefore, when things don’t seem to work for you, feel free to walk away.
You cannot please everyone.
It is almost impossible to keep everyone happy. Trying to achieve this, will only be a cause of more and more stress to you, your life, and business.
Set boundaries.
You need to tell yourself the difference between what you want and what others want from you. Do you wish to obey each and every command of your family member, even if it means putting your needs last? Once you can answer this question. You will be able to avoid getting exploited. In addition, you also need to understand the difference between what you want to do and what others want you to do. Once you get this clarity, it will be easier for you to draw a boundary wall around yourself. In order that you don’t fall easy prey to the demands of your dysfunctional family members.
Do not feel guilty.
Not every situation is in your control. You are not the only person responsible for clearing up all the problems. You cannot always be there to rescue them and fix their problems every time.
Accept help.
You are not a superhero and you do not have a solution to all the problems. It is better to ask help from people or other members of the family, whom you consider to be functional enough. Talk to them and ask for their help and support.
Let Me Help
Overseeing dysfunction can cause you to stress because you can’t be in 2 places at one time: taking care of your business and taking care of your loved one. Look into hiring some help. This will give you the opportunity to get some rest and also make sure your loved one is properly cared for.
Or maybe you want to spend more time with your loved one while taking a break from some of the redundant business tasks like sending out emails, returning calls, or organizing files. Let’s chat about how I can be of service to you so you can take care of your business and your loved one.
SCHEDULE YOUR FREE PLANNING SESSION TODAY
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