|
Improving
Family Relationships 
Families
are the primary source of love, joy, warmth and togetherness in our lives. Yet,
family life is also full of many challenging problems and conflicts. The
family unit is central to society because it is where social behaviour is learnt
and transmitted from one generation to another - it is the unit in which both
personality and society are forged. In this the domain, healthy family relationships
are crucial. For
those of us who are in family relationships that we wish to make or keep healthy,
or for use in future relationships, these skills are important after relationships
are formed Communication
skills: This is the most important area in most relationships. We learn to talk
more or less automatically as children, but we don't learn good communication
skills automatically unless our parents or caregivers model them for us. These
are covered in detail in other sections of this mini self help program. Good communication
skills include: Active
listening and feedback skills
Staying positive
Being clear and specific
Staying on the subject
Avoiding "you" statements, mind-reading,
and attacks Peace
and stability within the family and family relationships are the bed-rock of future
well-being for both individuals and policy-makers recognise the importance of
family and prioritise resources to assist families to more adequately respond
to their responsibilities. Throughout
our lives people surround us. We form good and bad relationships, have our ups
and downs, fall in love and socialise with people all over the world, but families
and relationships are never easy. As you grow older, you’ll learn to talk,
be honest and work things out. Communication is the key. Treat others how you’d
like to be treated. With patience and understanding we can all live and relate
with one another in happier environments.
RECOMMENDED READING: How
To Win As A Stepfamily
Stepcoupling
: Creating and Sustaining a Strong Marriage in Today's Blended Family
The
Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate
Gary Chapman identifies "love languages" he observes in his counseling
of couples and families. He noticed in his work that many people who truly loved
each other were speaking different love languages. As a result, they had difficulty
communicating with and appreciating each other. These love languages can be a
tool for helping families better understand each other and for overcoming communication
barriers. Understanding and using the five love languages can help parents to
better express their love, which is essential for a child’s normal development. Understanding
Obesity: The Five Medical Causes (Your Personal Health)
Dr. Levy points out the major error within the diet and weight control industry:
for most people obesity is first of all a symptom.
He offers excellent insights
and suggestions on ways to regain your communication with your body so that you
can learn to pay attention to the most knowledgeable person of all when it comes
to deciding what and when you should eat-- yourself. Why
Men Don't Have a Clue and Women Always Need More Shoes : The Ultimate Guide to
the Opposite Sex
Barbara and Allan Pease use psychology, sociology, and evolutionary biology to
discuss differences between the sexes. With obvious humor, they analyze common
misunderstandings, such as why women cry so much, why men are afraid to commit,
and what is said versus what is meant. Listeners will simultaneously laugh and
cringe in recognition. Both men and women can learn something, and neither sex
will feel attacked. A cheerful, informal tone makes for an approachable program,
without the feeling of being forced to accept these views.
| 
