Perhaps it is easiest to define a ‘strong family’ by what it is not.
When a family is not strong we tend to see certain warning signs.
In some families there is often an uncomfortable atmosphere. It may be tension, coolness, distance or indifference. Sometimes there is a high level of conflict or even violence, abuse or wilful hurting of others.
In some families we see children that are struggling or in trouble. It may be children not doing well at school, children angry or depressed, children with eating disorders or drug and alcohol problem, children withdrawing into gambling or internet addictions, or worse children with major problems with delinquency or suicide.
In some families that are not strong we often see adults who are struggling. It may be parents who are unhappy in their marriages, parents having affairs or never at home, parents with work problems, parents drinking, over-eating or simply neglecting their own health and lives.
Perhaps the strongest and most significant sign of families that are not strong is when the family itself buckles under pressure and the marriage breaks up or the family breaks down.
Next: 2. Qualities of strong families
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