Author: Mr. Ebrahim Aslani
Cultural and Educational Psychologist
A Review of Effective Communication Factors in the Iranian Family
Principle Three: Situational Awareness
Some communication problems arise from a lack of situational awareness. Egocentrism and one-sided perspectives, on one hand, and inadequate knowledge of educational methods, on the other hand, are factors that contribute to difficulties in situational assessment and awareness. Communication within the family is often disrupted due to a lack of situational understanding. Inadvertent mistakes, which are often unconscious and unintentional, can ruin suitable communication opportunities and sometimes lead to misunderstandings, mistrust, and resentment.
Key 7: Understanding Age-Related Traits
Despite individual differences, people at each age stage share common characteristics. By understanding the general traits of each age level, one can both predict behaviors and interact appropriately with individuals. Developmental psychology is the field that describes and explains age-related traits. Through developmental psychology, we can become acquainted with the dimensions and stages of growth, the general characteristics of each age level, normal and abnormal behaviors, and to some extent, the common problems and disorders associated with each level. One barrier to communication in Iranian families is the parents’ unfamiliarity with developmental psychology; this issue creates numerous problems not only in interactions with children but also in marital and social relations.
Key 8: Understanding Personal Traits
You, your spouse, your child, and all individuals have common traits with others at your age level, but you also possess unique characteristics that distinguish each of you from others. In psychology, these traits are referred to as “individual differences.” Findings from developmental psychology, along with daily life experiences and interactions, teach us that every person has personal and unique traits.
Lack of situational awareness and inability to understand age-related and personal traits can lead to communication problems, misunderstandings, and mistrust. Awareness of developmental psychology and understanding individual differences can be effective in improving family communication and preventing issues. Recognizing the general traits of each age stage and individual differences is key to successful communication.
Key 9: Familiarity with Life Skills
Although people have both general and specific characteristics, a set of principles can also be applied to face life’s challenges, known as “life skills.” Each of us needs to learn appropriate behaviors in various situations and problems to strengthen relationships by doing the right thing. Families can enhance their readiness for effective communication by referring to books on life skills, health psychology, and mental health.
🔔It is recommended to read the two-volume book “Iranian Family” by the same author. In the second volume of this collection, the fifth section, titled “The Iranian Family and Modern Educational Knowledge,” thoroughly addresses the needs and requirements of the Iranian family in facing future challenges and issues. This book is published by the Parents and Teachers Association.
