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Family Conflict

SNOMED Terms

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  • Antisocial personality disorder

  • Borderline personality disorder

  • Dependent personality disorder

  • Intermittent explosive disorder


Goals
 

  • Resolve fear of rejection, low self-esteem, and/or oppositional defiance by resolving conflicts developed in the family or origin and understanding their connection to current life.

  • Begin the process of emancipating from parents in a healthy way by making arrangements for independent living.

  • Decrease the level of present conflict with parents while beginning to let go of or resolving past conflicts with them.

  • Achieve a reasonable level of family connectedness and harmony where members support, help, and are concerned for each other.

  • Become a reconstituted/blended family unit that is functional and whose members are bonded to each other.


Behavioral Definitions

 

  • Constant or frequent conflict with parents and/or siblings.

  • A family that is not a stable source of positive influence or support, since family members have little or no contact with each other.

  • Ongoing conflict with parents, which is characterized by parents fostering dependence leading to feelings that the parents are overly involved.

  • Maintains a residence with parents and has been unable to live independently for more than a brief period.

  • Long period of noncommunication with parents, and description of self as the "black sheep."

  • Remarriage of two parties, both of whom bring children into the marriage from previous relationships.


Diagnoses

 

  • Dysthymic Disorder

  • Anxiety Disorder NOS

  • Intermittent Explosive Disorder

  • Alcohol Dependence

  • Cocaine Dependence

  • Polysubstance Dependence

  • Antisocial Personality Disorder

  • Dependent Personality Disorder

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Personality Disorder NOS

What is Family Conflict?

Family conflict is a common occurrence in many households and can arise from a variety of sources, including differences in values, beliefs, expectations, and communication styles among family members. Here are some key aspects to consider when dealing with family conflict:

Identify the Root Cause: Understanding the underlying issues contributing to the conflict is essential for addressing it effectively. 

Communication: Open and respectful communication is crucial for resolving family conflicts. 

Set Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries can help prevent conflicts from escalating and maintain healthy relationships within the family. 

Seek Compromise: In many cases, finding a middle ground or compromise is necessary for resolving family conflicts. 

Seek Support: If the conflict persists or becomes too overwhelming to handle on your own, consider seeking support from a therapist, counselor, or mediator who specializes in family dynamics. 

Focus on Solutions: Instead of dwelling on past grievances or assigning blame, focus on finding solutions and moving forward as a family. 

Cultivate Empathy: Empathy involves understanding and validating each other's perspectives and emotions, even if you don't necessarily agree with them. 

Remember that conflicts are a natural part of family life, and learning how to navigate them effectively can strengthen relationships and promote personal growth. 

Effects of Family Conflict

Here's a closer look at the potential consequences of unresolved or unhealthy family conflict:

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Emotional and Psychological Impact: Frequent or intense conflict can take a toll on mental well-being.

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Communication Breakdowns: Constant arguing or negativity can make it difficult for family members to communicate openly and honestly. 

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Strained Relationships: It can create resentment, hurt feelings, and difficulty trusting each other.

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Behavioral Problems in Children: Children exposed to chronic family conflict may act out or have behavioral problems at home, school, or with friends. 

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Physical Health Problems: The stress of constant conflict can manifest in physical health issues. 

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Difficulty Resolving Problems: When conflict becomes the norm, families may lose the ability to solve problems constructively.

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Negative Impact on Development: For children and adolescents, exposure to family conflict can hinder their emotional and social development. 

How does Family Conflict affect your life?

Here's how family conflict may affect individuals based on general knowledge:

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Emotional Well-being: Constant tension, arguments, and unresolved issues within the family can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, or anger. 

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Interpersonal Relationships: Family conflict can strain relationships with family members, leading to distance, resentment, or estrangement.

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Physical Health: Stress is linked to a range of health issues, including high blood pressure, weakened immune function, and digestive problems. 

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Academic or Professional Performance: Family conflict can affect an individual's ability to focus, concentrate, and perform well in academic or professional settings.

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Self-esteem and Identity: Constant criticism, rejection, or invalidation within the family may undermine a person's confidence and self-worth. 

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Coping Mechanisms: Individuals may develop unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as avoidance, substance abuse, or overeating, as a way to deal with the stress and emotional turmoil caused by family conflict. 

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Overall, family conflict can have far-reaching consequences that impact various aspects of an individual's life. Seeking support from trusted friends, therapists, or support groups can help individuals navigate these challenges and develop healthier ways of coping with family conflict.

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