Unit 1 You and Others
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Discussing family issues gives
members a chance to express their
views. Talking about feelings helps
increase understanding and trust.
Sometimes, families may discuss serious
issues, such as money challenges. Other
times, they may talk about simple
issues, such as which movie to see.
Many families find that if all family
members share a challenge, they can
more easily reach a solution.
Reading
Review
1. What can help make family challenges
easier to face?
2. How can sharing feelings help when
dealing with challenges?
3. How can family councils help solve
family challenges?
Conflict Resolution
Sometimes, a challenge cannot be easily solved. It may turn into a
conflict. A
conflict
is a disagreement between two or more people.
Conflicts often occur with family members and friends. This is partly
because you spend so much time together. When conflicts are not resolved,
relationships can be damaged by hurt feelings.
Conflict resolution
is the
process of finding a solution to a disagreement.
First, make sure you find the right time to settle a disagreement.
Choose a time when other people are not around. Allow sufficient time for
everyone to talk, listen, and explore solutions.
Use good communication skills to help resolve conflicts. Express your
feelings clearly. Be polite and avoid yelling or arguing. Attack the challenge,
not the person. For example, you may say, “I feel frustrated when my ideas
are not considered.” This is more effective than saying, “You never pay
attention to my ideas.”
Good communication also involves talking with other people, not to
them. Be an active listener. This helps you understand others’ points of
view. Family members need to share ideas, opinions, and feelings. This
helps them find solutions to their challenges.
When a solution is still not found, a mediator may be needed. A
mediator
is a person who is not involved in the conflict, but who helps
settle the conflict. This person will not be affected by the challenge. He or
she can give a neutral viewpoint.
Family members should be given a chance
to express themselves.
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