Stressors and Dysfunction

Adaptability and Clear Boundaries/Roles: The family structure is flexible enough to adjust to changes (like children growing up or a job loss), but also maintains clear, consistent rules and roles. Parents maintain appropriate authority while respecting the individuality and privacy of their children.

Unhealthy Family-Style Stressors (3)

Chronic and Unresolved Conflict/Poor Communication: Persistent fighting, criticism, hostility, or emotional neglect (lack of emotional availability). Communication is often stifled, misleading, or involves blaming/shaming.

Rigid or Unclear Boundaries/Roles: Extreme rigidity (unbending rules that don't adapt) or enmeshment (lack of clear boundaries, with members over-involved in each other's lives) or role reversal (children taking on parental responsibilities, known as "parentification").

Substance Abuse or Untreated Mental Health Issues: A family member's addiction or severe, untreated psychological disorder (like chronic depression or anxiety) creates a constant, unpredictable, and highly stressful atmosphere, often leading to secrecy and denial within the system.

How Problems and Stressors Affect Family Patterns of Functioning

Problems and stressors, whether internal (e.g., parental conflict, illness) or external (e.g., financial strain, major loss), disrupt the family's homeostasis—its natural, stable state.

In Functional Families: Stressors typically lead to a temporary disruption, followed by adaptation. The family uses its healthy components (communication, support, flexibility) as resources to cope, problem-solve together, and ultimately return to a new, stronger equilibrium.

In Dysfunctional Families: Stressors often lead to crisis and negative escalation. The pre-existing unhealthy patterns (poor communication, rigid roles, denial) are intensified. For example, chronic financial stress might cause a dysfunctional family to:

Sample Answer

Components of Healthy and Unhealthy Families and the Impact of Stress

Components of Family Functioning (6 points)

Healthy Family Components (3)

Open and Respectful Communication: Family members are able to express their feelings, thoughts, and needs honestly without fear of shame, punishment, or excessive criticism. They actively listen and show mutual respect even during disagreements.

Cohesion and Support: There is a sense of belonging and commitment among members. They provide emotional and practical support to one another, especially during difficult times, and enjoy spending time together.