Relationship & Family Therapist at Ronald Hoang Marriage Counselling & Family Therapy Sydney
Answered 2 years ago
See my response to your query below: Family conflicts are hard because we don't get to choose our family and we're bound by blood, we have no choice but to be in relationship. So, when we are in ongoing conflict with family it can feel like we’re in an impossible bind because we can’t simply give up the relationship yet we can’t seem to resolve the problem. Remember, a majority of conflicts aren't resolvable. What sustains relationships through conflict is understanding. By showing your understanding you’re inadvertently telling the person that they matter - and this is more powerful than finding a resolution. And we can convey understanding by reflecting or paraphrasing what the person has said, capturing both the content and especially the feeling. Sentence stems you might use: For empathy - “I can imagine you feel…” For validation - “From what you said, it makes sense that…” To help unpack - “Is there more?” And continue to reflect. Only when they feel fully understood do you unpack your side. Let me know if clarification or elaboration is required. Please backlink to www.ronaldhoang.com if quotes are used. Credentials: Ronald Hoang is a registered clinical counsellor and psychotherapist practicing at Ronald Hoang Marriage Counselling & Family Therapy based in Sydney, Australia. Ronald believes the quality of our relationship shapes the quality of our lives, thus he has dedicated his work to help others have meaningful, connected and authentic relationships. therapy@ronaldhoang.com +61 403791315 www.ronaldhoang.com
One effective strategy for managing conflicts between siblings in family therapy is to promote the practice of empathy. By encouraging siblings to put themselves in each other's shoes and consider the impact of their words and actions, they can develop a deeper understanding and compassion for one another, leading to more harmonious relationships.
One valuable approach is to incorporate structured family meetings. Providing a designated time and space for open discussions, conflict resolution, and decision-making can empower siblings to voice their concerns, express their needs, and participate in finding solutions together, fostering a sense of fairness and collaboration.