|
|
Family Survival in the 21st Century
Traits of Strong Families
Handout 1
-
Commitment. Working toward shared goals through
self-sacrifice, persistence and loyalty to other family members; cultivating
an environment of trust and dependability.
-
Connectedness. Receiving support from and
contributing to extended family, neighborhood and community, resulting in a
sense of belongingness as well as accountability to others.
-
Efficacy. Acting with self-confidence and
self-reliance, translating optimism into making a difference in improving
themselves and their world.
-
Cohesion. Maintaining family identity and
togetherness, balancing family priorities with support for member esteem and
achievement, producing strong family bonds and freedom for individual
self-expression.
-
Adaptability. Coping with change, balancing stable
roles and traditions with flexibility to change rules and share decisions.
-
Communication. Engaging in clear, open, affirming
speaking and consistent, empathetic listening, leading to constructive
conflict management and problem solving.
-
Spirituality. Believing in a higher power and acting
on a value system beyond self-interest, affecting a sense of purpose and
divine support in everyday and difficult events.
-
Time Together. Creating daily routines as well as
special traditions and celebrations that affirm members, connect them to
family roots, and add creativity and humor to ordinary events.
Prepared by Sarah L. Anderson, Ed.D., CFCS, Professor and
Extension Family Life Specialist.
Back to 2003 Volunteer Leader Training Guide
|
