Chapter 1 Learning About You
41
For instance, imagine you are having
a conflict with a close friend. You may
talk to your guidance counselor. He or
she can act as a mediator to help find a
solution. The mediator listens to both
sides and asks questions. The mediator
may suggest you and your friend try
a compromise. A
compromise
is an
agreement in which both sides are willing
to give up a little of what they wanted.
Reading
Review
1. Why are communication skills helpful in resolving conflicts?
2. Describe a mediator.
3. What is a compromise? Give an example.
Seeking Help
For many young people, serious challenges or a crisis are difficult to
understand. Divorce and death are two examples. They change the basic
structure of the family. These changes may be hard to accept. People need
to adjust without hurting themselves or others. It takes time and effort to
understand and adapt to the situation.
When family troubles arise, it can be hard to
think clearly. Some families share their challenges
with one another. They work together to find
solutions. Relatives, friends, and neighbors
may provide support. See 1-20. Other
families sometimes need more help. They
may talk with someone outside the family.
Discuss family challenges with
someone who will understand. There
are many people who can help. Family
doctors and religious leaders are some
examples. Teachers, school nurses, or
counselors may also be able to help.
Community resources are other sources
of help. Community resources include
family counseling agencies and shelters. Hot
lines and support groups also provide
help for troubled families.
A
family counseling agency
is a group
that provides families help as they adjust to
changes and challenges in their lives.
Support from others can help you get
through family challenges.
1-20
Help for Families in Crisis
Make a list of the organizations in
your community that offer help to families
dealing with serious challenges. Include
in the list information on how families can
best use these organizations.
Community Link