Family communication patterns set the stage for how we communicate outside of the family. Ideally, we grow up in families that model healthy ways of relating. Through this we learn that our feelings and needs are important and can be expressed. With a solid family base we are more likely to form healthy, open relationships in adulthood. However, families can become blocked by hurt, anger, mistrust or confusion. All of these emotions are a natural and normal part of relating and most families have at least a few experiences like this; especially during some type of family crises. It is never to
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