Family relationships and conflict.

Family relationships are critically important.  They serve as the support network for every member of the family.  Difficulties with family relationships have been linked to other challenges such as adolescent behavior problems, inhibited social skills and depression.  

Resolution of family conflict can help restore normalcy to a family's outlook on life.  There are several clinical approaches to helping families become more cohesive and improve the quality of time they spend together.  Key to conflict resolution is a balanced approach to problem solving that does not assign blame or take sides, but rather seeks to have each family member heard and encouraged to participate in problem-solving.