Relational Problems
Relational problems refer to problematic interactions between or among members of a “relational unit” (family, co-workers, etc.). It is expected that people who live together and/or work together will have conflicts from time to time. Siblings fight over who gets to sit up front, spouses argue over how to discipline their child, and co-workers often deal with work-related conflict. But these conflicts become a problem when they become excessive, or when the conflicts begin to impair one’s usual ability to function. Some behaviors and symptoms commonly associated with relational problems include:
- Recurring arguments and conflicts that do not resolve themselves
- Lack of communication, or hurtful communication
- Avoiding family members or co-workers who are believed to be the cause of the problem
- Irritability, sleeplessness, depression or social withdrawal
- “Kicking the cat,” or taking anger/frustration out on an uninvolved third party such as children or spouse
- Overprotection or over involvement in another persons life
TREATMENT GOALS:
Treatment of relational problems focuses on education and insight. It is important that each member in a conflict understands his/her own role in starting and in maintaining the conflict. What are each person’s triggers? What are the internal warning signs that communication is breaking down? From here, therapists work with the client to learn, develop, and practice effective communication strategies.
Specific treatment depends on the nature of the conflict.
- Individual Therapy: Individual work focuses on developing specific skills for managing anxiety, while also addressing the struggles with daily stressors and low self-esteem that often accompany a diagnosis of anxiety.
- Biofeedback: Like individual therapy, Biofeedback works by teaching specific anxiety management skills to the client. Biofeedback employs the use of technology to make the client more aware of the internal processes that contribute to anxiety, and in doing so, teaches the client to better control these processes.
- Family Therapy: Family work is important in the treatment of anxiety in that it focuses on developing open communication and expression of emotion, while teaching parents/loved ones techniques to utilize at home with the client.
- Group Therapy: Groups provide safe and appropriate social training where the client can get feedback from peers and professionals about how to regulate their behavior.