The experience of forced displacement and asylum-seeking can impose significant psychological and social challenges on families. As they strive to find safety and stability, they often face another critical challenge: maintaining family cohesion and warmth. In these circumstances, smartphones can sometimes transform from communication tools and news sources into personal escapes, leading to a disconnection among family members.
Dr. Sahar Mousa, an expert in family dynamics, suggests that regaining family warmth and fostering direct communication does not require strict policies or turning homes into places of orders and prohibitions. Instead, it demands a flexible, understanding, and innovative approach to managing relationships within the household. This approach includes implementing gradual and agreeable solutions rather than enforcing abrupt changes.
One effective strategy is setting specific times for screen use and non-use. For instance, families can agree to put their phones away for a short period, such as 20 minutes, at the beginning of each visit or gathering to encourage direct conversation. This time limit helps everyone feel comfortable and accept the new dynamics, turning the meeting into an enjoyable experience rather than a monitored one.
Renewing the language of dialogue is also crucial. Routine and stereotypical questions about work or school can diminish the desire for conversation, prompting family members to retreat into their screens. Instead, posing intriguing questions that evoke memories, laughter, and shared daily experiences can revive dialogue. It's essential to focus on attentive listening without interruption or unsolicited advice.
Engaging in joint activities has proven to create natural and deeper communication spaces than simply asking family members to sit and talk. Participating in preparing meals, making drinks, playing group games, or reminiscing about old photos generates organic conversations and rekindles positive feelings among family members.
Guidance through example and kindness is vital. Avoid criticizing or directly accusing individuals who are engrossed in their phones, as harsh criticism can lead to further screen engagement as a defensive mechanism. Parents should model the behavior they wish to see in their children and express their desire for communication in warm and encouraging terms.
It's also essential to consider individual needs and flexibility. Not all phone use indicates neglect or disregard for family; individuals may need to complete work, respond to urgent messages, or take a moment for personal calm. Therefore, household rules should be flexible, allowing for designated times for phone use, such as after meals or group activities, without making every screen glance a domestic crisis.
Key points
- Implementing gradual changes and engaging in open dialogue can help families protect their bonding and warmth.
- Encouraging joint activities and attentive listening can foster deeper communication among family members.
- Flexibility and understanding are crucial in managing screen time and preserving family cohesion.
