Strengthening Relationships

Insights into Functional Relationships

Summary

Although every individual is unique and has the capacity to function as an authentic self, according to Hackney and Cormier (2009), a way of viewing human functioning can be likened to ecological systems in which all elements are interrelated. Hackney and Cormier believe change at any level of the interrelated parts of human functioning will lead to alteration of the whole system. This systems concept was primarily applied to the interpersonal functioning within the family. However, because we are all members of an interdependent society, the interrelated systems concept not only applies to families, but to other diverse relationships within the ecological systems.

This workshop will review

  1. The definition and types of relationships
  2. Essential issues that may influence healthy relationships
  3. Characteristics of healthy relationships
  4. Practice Activities
  5. Resources
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01. Definition and Types of Relationships:

  • Definition of Relationships:
    • When speaking of relationships, many people focus on the narrow definition of kinship or a romantic or passionate attachment. However, Merriam-Webster’s essential definition of relationships is the way in which two or more people, groups,
      countries, etc., talk to, behave toward, and deal with each other.
  • Various Types of Relationships:
    • Family
    • Couples
    • Friendships
    • Employer-Employee
    • Religious Affiliation
    • Doctor-Patient

02. What can have positive or negative influences on relationships?

Because relationships are made up of at least two units of a constellation, each party has a distinct role that balances or complements the other, either positively or negatively. Often there is a hierarchy in a relationship. Whether there is a relationship hierarchy, or if the parties in the relationship are equal there are expectations in rules of engagement. The interaction of those rules of engagement may have a positive or negative influence on the relationship.

 

  • Factors that may have an impact on interaction of rules of engagement:
    • Family context (two parents, single parent, divorce, number of children, etc.)
    • Family structure (how family members interact)
    • Family order (sibling position)
    • Family relationships (dynamics)
    • Perception of previous relationships
    • Self-esteem

03. Characteristics of Healthy Relationships:

Developing particular characteristics are essential in building healthy relationships.

 

  • Some characteristics for building healthy relationships include:
    • Effective Communication
    • Trust
    • Compassion
    • Empathy
    • Respect/Integrity
      • Crystal Goblet Concept
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04. Practice Activities:

Activities will be provided for participants to experience associated with building healthy relationships

05. Resources:

  1. Gehart, D. 2014). Mastering Competencies in Family Therapy (2nd Ed.). Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning.
  2. Glenn, K. (2015). Reader Viewpoint – Can you relate? Counseling Today, 58(5), 49-52.
  3. Hackney, H. L. and Cormier, S. (2009). The Professional Counselor: A Process Guide to Helping (6th Ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.
  4. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relationship
  5. Murdock, N. L. (2009). Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Case Approach (2nd
    Ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc
  6. Sharf, R. S. (2004). Theories of Psychotherapy and Counseling: Concepts and Cases (3rd Ed.) Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole – Thompson Learning.
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