Types of Communication in Family Therapy

Conflict and misunderstandings can make it difficult for a family to function as a unit. How each member relates to the others affects how the group functions as a whole, as well as how each member functions as an individual. Family therapy is designed to improve interactions between group members through the use of effective communication skills.

Family Systems Therapy

• Families typically have a system of communication that depends on each member's contribution. Ongoing conflicts between family members can have a negative impact on the family's ability to function as a unit. The types of communication used in family therapy are designed to uncover destructive patterns, and provide the family the skills needed to manage and work through conflicts. Therapists work to redirect existing patterns towards more constructive forms of interaction. Reframing, strategic counseling and conflict management are some of the interventions used within the therapy session.

Communication Problems

• Communication problems within a family can be caused by interactions that take place between specific members---such as the parents---or can be a result of a change in the family structure. Changes in family structure can come about through divorce, a remarriage, or the arrival of stepsiblings. Family structure also can change when one parent stops working and the other one starts working. Such changes within the family unit can potentially disrupt the family's system of communication and cause conflict within the group.

Reframing

• It's not uncommon for communications between family members to be misunderstood or taken out of their intended context. Reframing is a type of communication that can help family members better understand the concerns and intentions behind the misconstrued words. An example of this would be a younger sister who feels bossed around by an older brother. Reframing the older brother's intentions would mean emphasizing his concerns regarding his sister's welfare, and his need to protect her.

Strategic Counseling

• Existing communication patterns within a family are often the result of interactions initiated by one or more members. Once a pattern is set in motion, the group follows along accordingly. Strategic counseling techniques involve the therapist meeting with the member or members who prompt unhealthy interactions within the group. This can be a father who unintentionally dismisses concerns his children may express with short, curt replies. Strategic counseling with the father would help him to realize how his lack of communication and connection affects his children's behavior.

Conflict Management Skills

• Healthy family functioning depends on how well members are able to communicate with each other. Conflict that arises within a family system has a domino effect in terms of how each member contributes to the problem. Conflict management is a type of communication where members learn to express their feelings and concerns in a non-threatening manner. Therapists also employ listening techniques to promote a better understanding of the communications that are taking place.