Strictness and permissiveness. In strong families, parents are the authority figures in the home, but reasons for rules are explained, and children have input into the family's rules. Problem solving . All families have conflicts but strong families tend to face and resolve them with an expectation that they can work things out. They face problems openly, and try to be flexible and creative in finding solutions.
Traditions are shared experiences that give meaning to family life and strengthen family bonds.
Fun and laughter. Family jokes and a playful attitude can preserve a sense of humor in difficult situations. Each family will have a different blend of these characteristics of family health, but each family has the potential to build stronger and more satisfying family relationships. Don't try to tackle all the areas at once. Identify one or two that seem like good places to start.