Most families will experience conflict at one time or another. Like any human relationship, it can be normal to have disagreements and conflicting opinions between family members. This can be particularly common when there are adolescents in the family. In many families, parents continue to take control of their teenager’s life, possibly due to the belief that their child is still not ready to make their own decisions or perhaps even as a force of habit.

When these conflicts are not managed constructively, they can have a negative impact on everyone in your family, especially your teen. Conflicts may not only cause separation among your family, they also have the ability to fuel concerning behaviors. You may find yourself wondering whether there is a way to move past family conflict without damaging family relationships.

When Fighting Feels Constant

It may seem inevitable for two or more people with distinct personalities and varying ideas to clash, even within families. Resolving these issues in a non-threatening manner, can be an effective learning experience for everyone. Problems can arise when egos or pride stand in the way of reconciliation as they often leave no space for rational thinking.

The underlying reason for most conflicts is the fear of losing control over someone or something. As a parent, you may feel afraid of losing control of your teen, fearing that their decisions may not be wise, all the while they may be trying to uphold their independence resulting in even more conflict. Family relationships can have a great deal of friction, often leading back to struggles for control.

Conflict Can Take its Toll

There is often more than one side to any conflict. When resolved in a manner acceptable to all, the family members involved in the conflict will often continue to have a peaceful relationship. If these conflicts are allowed to persist, relationships may begin to break down. Not surprisingly, unresolved conflict within your family can be the leading cause of continued tension and even symptoms of anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, there are often no winners in unresolved family conflicts as someone is often left to bear the repercussions.

When the degree and intensity of disagreement has come to the point that it is affecting the happiness, personality, or daily functioning of one or more of your family members, it may be time to seek outside intervention.

Utilizing Counseling to Resolve Family Conflict

It can be challenging to address family arguments considering the number of personalities that may be involved. Often, the roles assumed within the family are so deeply entrenched that members can simply refuse to acknowledge certain unhealthy patterns. It may take an impartial voice for your family to hear what each member has to say. In this aspect, counseling can offer a new perspective in resolving family conflicts in a healthy way.

Participate in these interventions with a licensed, independently contracted therapists with Carolina Counseling Services – Southern Pines, NC. Call today to schedule your first appointment and begin helping to bring peace and harmony back into your family.

Related Articles:

• The 21st Century Family: Proactively Meeting Challenges
• Family Counseling: 10 Ways Your Family Can Benefit
• Resolving Family Conflicts the Positive Way
• Overcoming Reactive or Family Depression
• Recognizing the Need For Help to Resolve Family Conflict