Gavazzi (2011) mentions the term family processes as being a broad concept to include boundary setting, emotional expression, flexibility and adaptation, coping strategies, problem-solving, and more that take place in the family system. Healthy family processes are essential to the healthy development and emotional wellbeing of adolescents. When a core family process is upset in some way, such as a divorce or job loss, the adolescent(s) will be negatively impacted. Research consistently suggests that when family processes are disrupted and there is an increase in transitions, adolescents show more negative outcomes (Gavazzi, 2011). This is when the parent-adolescent subsystem is even more important to the healthy development of the teen, specifically during times that are challenging or stressful. The years of adolescence are extremely formative as they usually determine a variety of outcomes in adulthood. During a family disruption, it is best for adolescents to feel supported and validated by their parents and family members throughout the experience. 

It's crucial for parents to understand the impact of disruptions and find ways to work towards strengthening the family system, especially the parent-adolescent dynamic. In this week's Padlet, you'll find many resources for parents to utilize during times that may be potentially damaging to the family system and subsystems, as well as resources for professionals in this field. 

Gavazzi, S. M. (2011). Families with adolescents: Bridging the gaps between theory, research, and practice. New York, NY: Springer.