6 Mistakes That Destroy Family Relationships

We must not forget that our parents and siblings are the only ones who are going to be there for our whole life, no matter what. This is why you must learn to strengthen your bonds with them.

Your family nucleus and the family relationships created within it should be your primary source of love, understanding, acceptance and support. 

Unfortunately, in many families, interpersonal relationships are severely degraded. The family union can be shattered and all family members can be affected by the deterioration of family relationships.

In order to know what are the reasons for this explosion, we have to look at the root of the problem, and then try to find viable solutions.

In the rest of this article, we’re going to walk you through the 6 things that can literally destroy family relationships, without us even realizing it.

1. Insults and criticisms

Words carry a lot of weight and, although we may not always realize them, they can hurt others a lot and mark them for life.

Your family should be the source of unconditional support, but the negative words that you or your parents may say can have a lasting impact on the relationships you have.

Sometimes in a heated discussion you can say things in a natural way that others may ignore and think you spoke in the heat of the moment.

But these words can also create holes in your family relationships.

It is important to avoid these situations, as they can be the source of conflict for many years. So it is better to stick to the following saying: “ If you have nothing to say, say nothing ”.

So, if you feel the need to say something, take a deep breath and speak calmly, with the goal of being constructive and not hurting others.

2. Gossip is damaging to family relationships

Gossip is always damaging. Usually, they are caused by the fact that you have a problem with someone that the other person knows well.

Talking behind her back may give you relief for a while, but that doesn’t solve the root problem.

On the contrary, your relationships with the person about whom you are inventing things will deteriorate quickly and permanently.

When there is gossip or gossip, it forces everyone in the family to take a stand.

It is therefore an important factor in the division of the family unit. We therefore recommend that if you feel the need to talk about something that affects a member of your family, you do so discreetly, with someone you trust.

Talk calmly about situations that generate tension. State the objective reasons for the problem and try to find realistic solutions, all with the aim of reconciliation.

If you succeed, you will be able to foster a serene atmosphere within your inner circle.

3. Lack of integration

The integration of all members of the family is necessary for its unity.

It is important that everyone is included in the decision-making process. Even if not everyone can have the last word, and that some voices count more than others, the fact of feeling listened to allows a good integration into the family unit.

If you isolate a family member, they may start to feel neglected and resentful.

For example, if you are planning a trip or some activity, and you invite all of your family members, it is up to them to decide whether they want to participate or not.

The main thing is therefore that everyone feels important within the family structure.

A family without its members is no longer a family.

4. Deception and lies

Deception is destructive in any relationship. Sometimes it can take years, even decades, before a lie finally comes to light.

So, keep in mind that the truth must always prevail and that it must always be brought to light.

If you can’t be honest with your family, who can you be honest with? Lying to family, even about unimportant things, can lead to the severing of family ties, as a lie betrays trust.

The bigger the lie, the greater the damage it causes. Always keep in mind that your actions have consequences, both for you and for those around you.

Better to recognize your mistakes and work with your loved ones to repair the harm they may have done.

Being honest with your family is a mark of respect towards them that you cannot live without.

5. Non-acceptance of differences

During your childhood, it is normal for you to live by the rules set by your parents. Your siblings receive the same discipline and education as you do, but that doesn’t mean you all have to do the same.

Living under the same roof does not necessarily mean sharing the same points of view. Political and religious issues are far too personal to be solved as a family.

You need to forge your ability to accept the opinions, tastes and preferences of other members of your family.

If you decide to be in constant conflict with those close to you, because of the differences that exist between you, you will irreparably damage the relationships you have with them.

Know that accepting people for who they are is one of the greatest proofs of love you can give them.

6. Don’t forgive or ask for forgiveness

A sincere apology is the glue of family relationships. No one is obviously perfect and it is normal for arguments to form at the very heart of the family unit.

But words as simple as “ I beg your pardon for. .. ”can create indestructible family bonds.

The message you send someone when you ask for forgiveness is that they mean a lot to you and that you don’t want to let negative feelings set in between you.

It is important that you keep in mind that your family needs you and vice versa.

Finally, do not hold a grudge, because it will only frustrate you and hurt you. It is therefore important to learn to forgive and to ask for forgiveness, in order to strengthen family relationships.