Page 65 - fourth year book

FAMILY HEALTH ASSESSMENT

Family health

Definition of Family health

Family health is a dynamic changing state of wellbeing which includes
the biological, psychological, spiritual, sociological and cultural factors of
individual members and the whole family system.

Factors affecting family health

There are several factors affecting family health such as:
A. Physical environment (home environment ) eg. Geography, housing
space, sanitation, presence of water, ventilation, climate.

B. Psychological (spiritual) environment eg .family support , affection
relationships, mutual respect between family members.

C. Socio - cultural factors e.g. traditions, customs, religious influences,
loci of authority.
D. Family communication patterns: include the frequency and quality of
communication within a family and between the family and its

environment.
E. Family coping patterns eg. family perception and response to stressors ,
how a family handles conflict and life changes, the nature and quality of

family support systems.

Characteristics of healthy families:

Healthy families are characterized by having the following: -

1. A facilitative process of interaction among its members.

2. Has effectively structured relationships and respect each other.

3. Actively attempt to cope with problems.

4. A healthy home environment and life styles.
5. Establish regular links with the broader community.

6. Teaches its members the familial, societal and religious values and beliefs.

7. Foster responsibility and value service to others.
8. Have a sense of play and humor and share leisure time.

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