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Family strengths in Romania
Abstract
Much of the literature that exists on the American family has focused on the problems of the family in an effort to develop methods to deal with such families. Recent studies on family strengths have focused not on the weaknesses of families, but on what makes families strong. Family strengths research has been conducted mostly with United States cultures. Six qualities have been identified that are commonly found in strong families. They are commitment to the family, spending time together, positive communication, appreciation and affection for each other, a sense of spiritual well-being, and the ability to cope with stress and crisis. A few studies have also been conducted in other cultures around the world. These studies have found that although families in different cultures may take on different forms, and the challenges they face due to circumstances and threats may vary, the strengths of families have been found to be more similar than different. No family strengths studies have been conducted in the post-communist countries of Eastern Europe. The purpose of this study was to identify Romanian family strengths using a multiple case study, multiple site design. It is through this qualitative case study approach that we begin to piece together what it means to be part of three Romanian families. These families were interviewed using semi-structured questions and probes, as well as observed as much as possible during their family interactions All data collected while in Romania was analyzed for common themes. The themes of perseverance, respect, and unity were identified as useful characteristics of a strong family as described by Romanians. These three characteristics are related to the six qualities of strong families previously identified by researchers in the United States and other countries. This study is important in that it is significant, not only for family strengths literature, but also because it introduces new information from a previously communist country that had granted only limited access to the world until 1989. In addition, identification of these strengths should raise questions about family research and education in Romania. It may be of interest to political and social leaders who see a need for change and seek to develop family education programs. Ultimately then, by giving Romanian educators, mental health workers, and parents the information they need to create healthy families, society will be better prepared to face the challenges of a developing democracy.
Subject Area
Individual & family studies|Home economics|Home economics education|Ethnic studies
Recommended Citation
Asay, Sylvia Marie, "Family strengths in Romania" (1998). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9917820.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9917820