Jong volwassenes se persepsies van gesonde gesinsfunksionering

The aim of this research was to determine which factors, according to a group of young adults, contribute to healthy family functioning and to determine how their perceptions correspond with existing literature in this respect. Qualitative research, specifically a multiple case study design was used. Snowball sampling was used to obtain 10 participants between the ages of 20 and 39. These participants responded in writing to the question: "In your opinion, what are the factors contributing to healthy family functioning?", after which individual interviews were held surrounding the same question. Analysis of the participants' responses yielded 31 themes, 14 of which were mentioned by five or more participants. These 14 themes are: the handling of conflict, misunderstandings and problems; communication; respect; religion; hierarchy; love; example setting by parents; roles and roll distribution; support and co-operation; acknowledgement towards family members; to spend time together; finances; trust; and active investment in the family. These themes were compared to the research/utterances of authoritative family therapy models and it appears that participants' responses correspond with literature surrounding factors contributing to healthy family functioning. Participants' responses also suggested new dimensions not previously indicated in literature. Suggestions were made concerning future research.