The term dysfunctional family describes a condition that is best thought of as a continuum of unhealthy rules and behaviors that are seen in many households. This ranges from severely abusive families where physical and/or sexual abuse occurs to the equally damaging, but more socially accepted emotional abuse that routinely happens in many families.
This dysfunctional family educational video clearly describes the rules that, stated or unstated, are the underpinnings of this type of family. These unrealistic rules in the family of origin result in the child feeling tremendous shame and inadequacy. The shame cycle and the resulting symptoms and dynamics of dysfunctional families are identified and discussed. Treatment guidelines are clearly outlined and in language readily understandable to both clinicians and the general public.
This dysfunctional families mental health video, just like the other educational mental health videos in this series have been designed to appeal to individual clients or families and the mental health clinician in the field who is interested in learning more about dysfunctional families and how to treat it effectively.