How does someone become estranged from their family: suddenly or over time?

A noteworthy study by Australian Social Work Researcher Kylie Agllias in 2015 delves into the complex nature of estrangement. The findings from Agllias’s research challenge the notion that it can be attributed to a single primary factor.

Estrangement is years in the making, “often enacted in response to a final betrayal, hurt, or misunderstanding,” Agllias says.

According to Agllias, the development of estrangement unfolds over time, encompassing a series of factors that contribute to the breakdown of the parent-child relationship over time.

She notes some of the factors that contribute to an inability to sustain an emotional connection. This often arises from disparities in values and behaviors between the generations.

So, given this research, how can family therapy help? As a family therapist, I see the possibilities to intervene at various points. In best cases, your family seeks therapy early on. We can work to build better connection and understanding before it leads to further disconnection.

But family therapy can also help once your family is further along in the estrangement process. We can uncover past wounds to heal the hurts from the past and help find your way back to connection.

Wondering if family is right for you? Schedule a free consultation below.

References

Agglias, K. (2018) A snapshot of Australian social workers in palliative care and their work with estranged clients, Social Work in Health Care, 57:8, 620-636.