Chapter 1 Learning About You 39
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Different Points of View
When situations are diffi cult at home, each person may be affected
differently. Young children, teens, and adults may each see the same
problem from a different point of view.
For instance, young children have little understanding of money
problems. Unless they lack food, shelter, and clothing, they may not
even know a problem exists. Teens, on the other hand, need more than
food, clothing, and shelter. They need supplies for school. They also
want to have some of the items their friends have. They may feel angry
if there is not enough money to buy these items. Adults are responsible
for providing for the needs of their entire families. Money problems can
cause adults to feel worried.
Reading
Review
1. Why do similar challenges affect young children, teens, and adults
differently?
2. How can you become more aware of the challenges your parents have?
What can you do about it?
Addressing Challenges
Families can use several methods to deal with challenges. These
methods include working together and talking openly. Sometimes families
may have to seek outside help to deal with serious challenges or a crisis.
Unity
means to agree, without being divided. When challenges occur at
home, family unity makes them easier to face. Family members can agree to
work together.
When family members share their feelings, challenges do not seem
so bad. To young people, challenges sometimes seem bigger than they
really are. Talking with parents may help young people see challenges in
a more realistic way. Parents may be afraid to show their fear about family
challenges. Sharing their concerns with their children can help the children
understand the issues.
Some family challenges may have a very simple solution, or answer.
It may just be a matter of talking about the challenge and deciding what
to do. Other challenges, or a crisis, are harder to solve. Finding the answer
may not be so easy. Family members may have to think and talk about the
issues for hours, days, or even weeks before a decision can be reached.
When this happens, a family council can be helpful. A
family council
is an informal meeting to talk about issues concerning family members.
Every member should be included, even younger children. They may not
understand all that is said. They are, however, still a part of the family.
See 1-19.