Open communication is often the key to fixing disagreements in the family. However, there are two reasons that cause protracted family conflict to spring up. These are:
- Different views or beliefs. It can be tough for people to be in harmony with the rest of the family when they hold different views or beliefs. Take the upcoming elections, for instance. Someone else who might believe in a different political candidate might find it hard to get along with a family member who’s rooting for someone else. Sometimes, a person’s views and beliefs can be so deeply entrenched as to be blinding that they won’t accept any criticism or entertain a discussion of their views.
- Poor communication skills. Some people, though, can work through different views and beliefs. This is where superior communication skills come in handy, though. If one is combative and aggressive, that’s going to end the conversation before it’s even begun.
Issues that revolve around the following are also a common cause of family conflicts:
- Sibling rivalry. When children compete for their parents’ attention, this can result in a lot of jealousy on one or both sides, leading to behaviors that cause one sibling to deal hurt to the other.
- Finances. Lack of a job or enough money can cause a lot of stress in a home and take their toll on family members.
- In-laws and extended family. It’s not easy living with someone else, no matter how much you love them. It’s even tougher to live with an extended family or your in-laws.
- Child discipline. Disagreements regarding child discipline can cause conflict especially if one is a disciplinarian and the other isn’t.
Getting Help
Conflicts, if left unresolved, can cause lifelong rifts. Don’t let a simple spat get in the middle of you and the people in your life. If you must, get a professional mediator to help.