Effective Communication in Families

I enjoyed reading about the guidelines on how to communicate more effectively among families. First, it is important for relationships to invest the same amount of effort, known as “equity”. The book also mentioned the Social Exchange Theory, in which we are more satisfied with relationships when we see that the benefits from our investments outweigh the costs put in. Secondly, we should make daily choices that enhance intimacy. For example, we should put in that extra bit of effort, like showing up to our little sister’s ballet show even thought ballet may be boring. Though it is just a very simple gesture, it is the little everyday details that make a bond stronger. Another guideline is to show respect and consideration. Because we are so comfortable with our loved one, it is important to take them for granted, and be more vicious towards them than we would if our friends upset us. It is also vital to be assertive of our feelings, and emotions- both positive and negative in a respectful manner. Lastly, we should not sweat the small stuff. Since it is hard to change others and it seldom works, we can only change ourselves and control our perception of the situation. Rather than getting upset about someone’s bad habit, like being late all the time, we should keep in mind that we are not always perfect either and remember all the times they did not nag us for something small. We must learn to accept our loved ones and perhaps find ways to help them rather than bash on them for every disappointment that rises.