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These are stressful times for families. Most families face difficult strains on time, money and emotions. Sometimes homes become the place where everyone is worn out or angry. But, in spite of these difficulties, there are ways for our families to remain strong and happy. What makes families strong?
Researchers who have worked on answers to this question for years have identified nine strengths. These strengths suggest a guide or map for us to follow in creating our own, unique, healthy family. The strengths can work in all types of families. (More)

Caring and Appreciation. Families are strengthened by expressions of caring and appreciation. Even when a family member makes many mistakes, members of strong families find ways to support one another. Kind words, physical expressions, courtesy, and notes are ways of expressing this strength.

Time Together. When 1,500 school-age children were asked what they thought made a happy family, the answer they gave most often was doing things together. Strong families find that opportunities for quality time emerge from quantity time. Popping corn and watching movies together is one way to share time.

Encouragement. Strong family members celebrate each other's successes and promote one another's worth. They also give members needed privacy and encourage building and sharing of talents outside the home. Identifying a special place for "quiet" work on school nights is one way to demonstrate encouragement.

Commitment. Members of strong families are committed to the family as a group. They are willing to take action and make sacrifices for the good of the family as a whole. Exploring our family heritage can strengthen our feelings of commitment.

Communication. Strong families communicate. They talk. They share themselves. They share their hopes, dreams and feelings. They take the time to listen and respond to what others have to say. Turning off the TV and spending some time just talking about the day is one way to develop this strength.

Adaptive Ability. This refers to a family's ability to deal with day-to-day and unexpected strains. Strong families adopt habits and routines that are flexible and can be adjusted if the need presents itself. Families can reverse or exchange family responsibilities (cooking, housecleaning, etc.) to help build this strength.

Spirituality. Strong families share a belief in something greater than themselves. They tend to agree about what is right and wrong. To build this strength, some families hold devotionals, participate in religious groups, or take time to ponder the wonders of nature.

Community and Family Ties. Strong families are connected to others in the community. They don't stand alone. They spend time developing ties with neighbors, friends, religious or other community groups, and schools.

Clear Roles. Members of strong families have a clear idea about their day-to-day roles and obligations to the family. Roles are shared. Strong families make decisions, solve family problems and do family work together.

Take time to identify, build, and celebrate your strengths. For more ideas for building your family strengths, check out the non-denominational Forever Families website (foreverfamilies.byu.edu)

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