What Causes Family Conflict?

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Family can be a source of support just as it can be a source of stress. Conflict is unavoidable in any relationship and this can seem particularly true when it comes to family. While conflict is inevitable, it doesn’t have to be constant. You can learn ways to resolve conflict, especially when you know more about it. The more you know about the signs that conflict is becoming unhealthy and where it comes from, the sooner you can intervene if things need to change. 

Common Family Problems

The idea that your family always has your back – understanding, loving and supporting you unconditionally – can sometimes feel unrealistic. Realistically, “few families meet this expectation 100% of the time, and in some cases, a person’s family is far from ideal, associated instead with stress, misunderstanding, anger, disconnection, and unmet needs,” says Good Therapy.

Your family is unique, but it is likely that you face some of the same challenges as other families. The specifics may vary from one family to another, but the nature can be similar. According to Good Therapy, some common issues that affect families are: “financial issues, grief, substance abuse, behavioral issues and academic concerns in children and adolescents, emotional health concerns, separation, divorce, or blended family adjustments, and chronic illness.”

If you notice that your family is experiencing any of the following, it may be time to seek help; 

• Frequent arguments
• Lack of communication
• Angry outbursts
• “Silent treatment”
• Avoidance behaviors
• Any type of physical violence 
• Drastic changes in behavior

This list is not meant to be exhaustive, merely to get you thinking about what is going on in your family. Many wait until things become unmanageable or out of hand before seeking help. You don’t have to wait. 

Cause and Effect of Family Conflict

Each family is unique and the causes for conflict will vary, though there tend to be some similarities. These causes can include differences in beliefs, values and personalities. Financial stressors, major life changes, separation and divorce can also lead to conflict. Things can be complicated by having additional family members in the household, in the case of extended or blending families. Other complicating factors can include mental  health symptoms, substance abuse, gambling and bullying.

Without healthy communication and interpersonal skills conflict can be left to run rampant. You can learn ways to resolve conflict in healthy ways that fit you and your family. Counseling can help. 

How Can Family Therapy Help?

Family therapy can help you and your family members explore the source of your conflict and learn healthy ways to resolve problems. Many issues go avoided and unresolved for years. This doesn’t have to be the case for you and your family. You can find healthy ways to communicate and move forward together. 

Carolina Counseling Services in Fayetteville, NC contracts with skilled, licensed therapists. Find the counselor that is right for you and your family with CCS. Call now to get started!