Change is tolerated, and family members are willing to live with the unchangeable. Since they are secure in their identity, people and ideas that are different are not seen as threats. Growth and achievements are celebrated within healthy families. Such events are not viewed as threatening, but as successes shared among the members. Events such as birthdays and holidays are enjoyed rather than dreaded.
Parents make themselves available to their children.
Even in their availability, the parents remain in the parental role and do not attempt to become the child's ' best friend '. The family often serves as a shock absorber to changes in society. An emotionally healthy family will provide a smoother ride for its members and the community. Striving to become a healthy family is an investment of time and effort whose return exceeds that of the stock exchange. Families, like any endeavor, provide rewards commensurate to the time and effort spent in maintenance.