Strengthening Marriages and Families Chapter 16
Family Strengths and Universal Values
Human Betterment…One Goal Economic Adequacy Justice Freedom Peacefulness Boulding, 1985
Preparing for Marriage and Family Life
Premarital Programs Effective Programs have: Premarital inventory Skill building component Small discussion group format
PREPARE Premarital Program Six Goals Explore relationship strengths and growth areas Develop or enhance communication and Assertiveness skills Develop or enhance conflict resolution skills Explore family of origin influences Develop financial management skills Develop personal, family, and couple goals
Common Couple Challenges Conflict resolution Couple flexibility Personality issues Communication Leisure activities Parenting
Seeking Family Assistance Marriage and Family Therapists American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) www.aamft.org
Keys to Family Resiliency Family Organizational Patterns: Connectedness Flexibility Social and Economic Resources Walsh, 1998
Keys to Family Resiliency Family Communication Processes: Clarity Open emotional expression Collaborative Problem Solving Walsh, 1998
Keys to Family Resiliency Family Belief Systems: Making meaning of adversity Positive Outlook Transcendence and Spirituality Walsh, 1998
Strong Families… Find the positive Pull together Communicate clearly Keep things in perspective Adopt new roles in flexible manner Look at big picture Find meaning and purpose Address challenges head on