Types of Family Relationships and Communication Patterns

Voluntary Family

Family formed by choice, not biology.

Involuntary Family

Family relationships determined by birth or lineage.

Marital Roles

Defined by each partner's responsibilities in marriage.

Content Expectations

How roles define the relationship's nature.

Relational Expectations

Emotional expectations partners have for each other.

Traditional Couples

Men work, women nurture; highest satisfaction.

Separates

Conventional roles with conflict avoidance.

Independents

Nonconventional roles with high communication.

Launching Stage

Children begin to separate from parents.

Deidentification

Creating a distinct identity from siblings.

Family Systems Theory

Studies family dynamics as interdependent systems.

Family Communication Patterns Theory

Examines family interaction and communication styles.

Pluralistic Families

Encourage children's opinions in decision-making.

Consensual Families

Promote openness but expect similar values.

Laissez-Faire Families

Limited communication; children make independent decisions.

Protective Families

Authority-based; children must obey rules.

Symbolic Interactionism

Actions based on assigned meanings, which evolve.

ABCX Model

Framework for understanding family stress management.

A in ABCX Model

Stressor event causing hardship.

B in ABCX Model

Resources available to manage stress.

C in ABCX Model

Family's definition of the stressor.

X in ABCX Model

Family's perception of the event.