Conflict in the family disrupts/interferes with all of the family member’s day to day life. Family conflict takes place when unwanted change or changes are introduced in some form or style that goes against a family member’s approval. Conflict opens up hurt feelings, pain, anger, resentment, and other negative emotions that may be triggered by unresolved issues of the past.
If the disruption or conflict in the family is not handled appropriately, it can and will cause long-lasting or even permanent damage to the whole family relationship. The family relationship becomes estranged due to members not getting their way. According to Hutchinson (2020), “At times, relationships can become so dysfunctional they become toxic—detrimental to mental health, emotional health, and even physical health.”
Toxicity in family relations takes a toll on all members. Hutchinson (2020) reports that there are severe consequences of consistent interaction with toxic family member. For example, research finds that emotionally abusive relationships with narcissists can have long-term detrimental effects such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. Hutchinson goes on to say that, “Further, there are physical consequences that may result in these chronic adverse experiences such as heart disease, auto-immune disorders and fibromyalgia.”
Are You Experiencing Family Conflict? Is the Family Conflict Leading to Estrangement?
If you have answered “Yes” to both of these questions, it is time for professional help.
Reference: Hutchinson, Tracey S. (2020). To estrange or not to estrange: Toxic family dynamics.
Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-pulse-mental-health/202006/estrange-or-not-estrange-toxic-family-dynamics
