Dysfunction...

                                              ...what is it?

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                                                                                                                            The Definition of Dysfunction Copyright 2011 Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families

Dysfunction [dis-fuhngk-shuhn] -noun  Sociology.  A consequence of a social practice or behavior pattern that undermines the stability of a social system. dysfunctional, adjective.
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Using the term "dysfunction" when describing a family whose behavior patterns and relationships are unhealthy isn't something that's always been done; however, family dysfunction is certainly nothing new. The dysfunctional family pattern is an intergenerational phenomenon that has apparently always existed. 

But what is a dysfunctional family, exactly? Is dysfunction something that exists only in families where one or more members has a substance abuse problem? In order for a family to be dysfunctional, does abuse need to be present? What does the definition of dysfunction really mean when it's applied to a family or a relationship?

A functional, healthy family isn't a "perfect" family; it does experience episodes of dysfunctional behavior. Healthy families' members make mistakes and have arguments. The relationships and behavior patterns in a functional family are not without challenges.

However, a healthy family is able to regain its balance when difficult situations arise between members, or when bad things happen, and allows its members to get their needs met appropriately.

A dysfunctional family is continually out of  balance, and is frequently teetering on the edge of crisis (or in continual crisis). The dysfunctional family is full of unresolved conflicts and negative emotions such as toxic shame and fear, and most often, some form of codependency. Issues of abandonment and enmeshment are typically present. Parentification of children is very common, as is infantilization.

Many dysfunctional families experience substance abuse on the part of one or more members; however, not all family dysfunction involves alcoholism or drug addiction. Families in which one or more members has a personality disorder or mental illness can also be highly dysfunctional. Family dysfunction arises when, for any number of reasons, parents are not able to meet their own needs and their childrens' needs in a healthy manner.

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