Family therapy developed in the second half of the 20th century. It is a type of psychological counselling that builds stronger relationships in a structured way. This creates a loving home with a healthy and well-functional family. There are open communications and collaborations while learning emotional validation, cognitive reframing, and empathy. It is a much-needed therapy since the rules of family life have seen a profound change over the years. In a survey of 354 students, it was found that 43.5% reported an estrangement with disagreements being the most casual factor. Another survey reported that there were 64 families with at least one estranged child within a sample of 566 families.
Cutting ties is often initiated by children. It is a common phenomenon that rips apart American households. Divorce, separation, arguments, personality clashes, bad parenting decisions and work-life non-balance are other causes. The good news is that science-based techniques and exercises ensure happy and wholesome families. It makes sure everyone is heard, helps members understand each other and teach healthy conflict resolution.
Benefits of Family Therapy
Behavioral, psychodynamic, and structural methods assure major changes in families. This is quite crucial since the divorce rate in America in 2020 stood at 2.3 per 1000. But know that the word ‘family’ is not restricted to blood relatives. It can be anyone who plays a significant role in your life. For example, adopted children or foster parents fall under this category.
Here’s how a session with a therapist can be helpful.
- Develops a safe and supportive environment for kids to thrive
- Reduced the chances of worsening existing mental illnesses
- Improves damaged relationships with teens and adolescents
- Inculcating a sense of trust among family members
- Creating a more forgiving, warm and sympathetic nature among all
- Improves problem-solving skills
One can also recover from a less-than-supportive tumultuous childhood since the shameful feeling of growing up into a dysfunctional family can follow into adulthood. There are fewer chances of humiliation, criticism, and mismatched expectations. Reconciliation can reduce stress and anxiety while lengthening your lifespan. Other physical benefits of good family bonds are lower risks of dementia and healthier habits.
How Effective is Family Therapy?
There is a positive impact of structural-strategic oriented family therapy on both parents and adolescents at family and individual-level dimensions. Readjustment of norms catering to additional needs of each member can lower the events of abuse, neglect, and violence. This further stops the cycles of intense emotions from getting repeated when the child grows up and forms their family in future. A therapy session has the power to heal mental, emotional, and psychological issues and helps hold a family together.
Look for professionals who will stay in close contact with you and can have a good rapport with your children. They must be well-experienced in handling both adolescents and teenagers to help overcome obstacles like peer pressure and insecurities. Pick from a combination of individual and family therapy for the best outcomes.