If you've ever seen a happy family, you may have noticed that many of them deal with family conflict effectively. In order to prevent conflict, start with the principles of empathy, respect, and setting and using boundaries. When you set boundaries, it will help your family to feel heard. If your family is constantly at odds, you may want to try a few of the other methods listed above. Here are some tips to help you build a happy family.
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Empathy
Developing a sense of empathy is a powerful skill for raising children. Children can learn about empathy from their parents, older siblings and even strangers. Children can also learn about empathy by observing empathetic families. Empathy helps happy families deal with family conflict effectively and create a peaceful home environment. However, there are some basic skills that parents can use to help their children develop empathy. Below are some examples of skills to develop in your family.
Respect
If you want to live in a happy family, try to develop a respectful relationship with every member. Respect means not hitting or calling names. It also means being willing to listen to the other person's viewpoint. If you disagree with a loved one, try to apologize in a respectful way. Then you'll have a positive impact on your relationship with your children. Ultimately, respect can help you deal with family conflict effectively.
Setting boundaries
Establishing clear, concise boundaries is essential for a happy family. Although a change in the rules can be difficult, it is essential to avoid confusing loved ones and causing family conflict. If you are not clear on what your boundaries are and why you are establishing them, you may be setting yourself up for trouble. A good rule of thumb is to make boundaries one at a time. If you can only handle one boundary at a time, the other person will feel confused and defensive.
Using consequences
Using consequences to deal with family conflict can be a positive way to encourage children to follow the rules and routines that you've set out. Using logical consequences is particularly helpful when children are repeatedly misbehaving. The consequences should be prearranged by an adult and should only be used if there is a real threat or safety issue at stake. Otherwise, natural consequences can be ineffective. Children should be taught to express their needs and requests in a non-threatening manner.
Apologising
While conflicting is inevitable, apologising can help a happy family deal with it. It establishes a level of understanding that leads to more effective conflict resolution. Also, talking about the issue on the phone is less stressful than a face-to-face confrontation. Instead of yelling and blaming, talk about the other person's situation and how you can help them to solve the problem.