Building Stronger Bonds: The Power of Effective Family Communication
Routine communication becomes a series of check-ins to ensure everything is alright and to provide logistical updates. While exchanges to remind your partner about their dentist appointment and to ask your children to take out the trash are important, they start to push out the opportunity for a deeper connection.
At the end of the day, it’s the deeper, more meaningful conversations that build stronger bonds.
Why Family Communication Matters
Communication is the foundation for all healthy, lasting relationships. As humans, it’s how we share our experiences and form necessary connections. Family relationships are no exception to this rule. Some people may even consider it more important among family members.
Feeling understood increases the likelihood of sharing feelings and information openly and honestly. Healthy communication builds trust and creates a supportive environment where each person involved can thrive.
When communication skills are lacking, it can create an environment of resentment and misunderstanding. Partners who can’t freely express themselves may find themselves disconnected. Children who don’t feel heard will be less inclined to continue open communication.
Common Communication Barriers
Many families share similar communication challenges. Ranking high on that list are distractions related to technology and social media. We live in a state of constant divided attention and 24/7 connectivity. This creates a huge barrier to productive conversation.
Additional barriers include:
Busy schedules
Unresolved past conflict
Poor communication skills
Building Better Communication Habits
Improving communication skills begins with small, intentional changes in how you interact with each other. Assess your personal situation and see where your efforts should be focused.
Limiting Screen Time
Start setting aside dedicated time for family conversations, such as during family meals or at a weekly family gathering. Make these as distraction-free as possible, limiting screen use during these designated times.
Practicing Active Listening
While speaking may seem like the key player in communication, it’s listening that holds the most power. This goes beyond just hearing the words the other person is saying; it’s about truly receiving the information being presented and trying to understand their perspective. Put down your phone, make direct eye contact, paraphrase information back, and be present.
Using “I” Statements
Conflict is an inevitable and often necessary part of life. In fact, it’s through conflict that you will find personal and relationship growth. When having the harder conversations, shift your approach and use more “I” statements. Saying “I feel unappreciated when I have to do all of the cleaning” sounds way less accusatory than “You never help me around the house.” “I” statements will help disarm the situation and open the door for more productive conversations.
Creating a Space for Self-Expression
All family members need to feel safe when expressing themselves for open communication to occur. This means validating feelings rather than providing judgment, even when you have differing perspectives. You can acknowledge these differences and honor their feelings without agreeing or violating your boundaries.
Encourage the sharing of thoughts, especially for younger children who aren’t yet as assertive with their voices. During conversation, ask open-ended questions that promote further dialogue and more connection. Asking “What was the best part of your day?” is more effective than asking “Did you have a good day?”
Turning to Professional Support
Communication is a skill that needs to be practiced to be effective. In some instances, additional support is necessary to build healthy habits. Family therapy offers a safe, neutral space to develop or improve these skills as a unit.
If your family is struggling with communication challenges, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Reach out to explore how we can help you build the stronger connections you’re seeking.