Whether it’s a blended family, biological family, or multigenerational families living together, the art and science of developing and nurturing a family falls on each one of the family member-young or old – and through actively honoring traditions and rituals; both spoken and unspoken. When this is not done it leads to a family system breakdown, and family members suffer from emotional pain, guilt, shame, anger, resentment, grief, heartbreak, isolation, alienation, and tremendous stress- sometimes even leading to self-harming behaviors.

Core Unhealthy Family System

• No routine or ritual
• No trust of the family members
• No boundaries or too flexible/no privacy
• Open conflict, triangulation, aggressive, passive communication
• Reprimand, outcast
• Shaming, Blaming, and Scapegoating
• Threat to existence, write off from property, favoritism
  

Healthy Family System

•  Members attend to each other needs, structure
•  Expected roles are clear and safe
•  Open communication with no fear of retribution
•  Trust and family time together (routine, ritual)
•  Growth and exploring new realms
•  Gratitude