When financial pressures from declining markets threaten family farming operations, it is often the family attitudes and coping skills that make or break the business. A 1994 study at the University of Wisconsin found that farm families who survived the financial pressures and continual demands of farming shared similar positive attitudes. These families were more likely to have confidence in farming as an industry and to have confidence in their family's ability to endure and solve problems, and to cope and respond as a family unit. It takes family cooperation and skills in problem solving. That means family members need to talk to each other, to their neighbors, and to others in the community.
Research shows that resilient farm families face problems head-on and look for solutions together.
They pull together as a family to make financial sacrifices, such as seeking off-farm jobs and postponing plans that involve spending money. A social support network is crucial for farm families who are struggling under economic pressures, Marshall said. It is important to maintain community activities and to continually seek and develop support from extended family, friends, and community members. During tough times, resilient families talk with others who are experiencing similar problems and actively reach out to community groups for assistance. They also attend meetings to gain knowledge and a greater understanding of how to solve their problems.