What is a dysfunctional family? "Family dysfunction can be any condition that interferes with healthy family functioning." (University Counseling Services) Most families have some periods of time where functioning is impaired by stressful circumstances (death in the family, a parent's serious illness, etc.). Healthy families tend to return to normal functioning after the crisis passes. In dysfunctional families, however, problems tend to be chronic and children do not consistently get their needs met. Negative patterns of parental behavior tend to be dominant in their children's lives. Families face many problems through out their time while living and not living together, like abuse, control, and also trying to be the traditional family.
There are many forms of dysfunctioning families. One would be one that is too controlling. Now I am not talking about parents who set a curfew or do not let there child go to a certain party but the kind who over-function, never allowing their children to grow up and be on their own. Unlike the deficient parents, who hurt their children more by omission than by commission, controlling parents do not let there children assume responsibilities approbate for there age. Theses controlling parents will continue to dominate and make decisions for their child well beyond the age at which is nessary. Controlling parents are often driven by a fear of becoming unnecessary to their children. This fear leaves them emotional betrayed and abandoned when their children become independent. On the other hand, these children frequently feel bitter, inadequate, and helpless. When theses deprived children grow up and turn into adults their roles are quite difficult, as these adults frequently have difficulties making decisions separate from their parents. When they act separate these adults feel dreadfully guilty, as if growing up were a serious act of disloyalty.