Saturday, January 8, 2011

Family Conflict


Your good friend is arguing with his wife. It is a heated and emotional argument, and they are screaming and shouting at one another. Now you are caught in the midst of it. What would you do?

Situation like this can happen when you visit, dine or stay with your friend. Initially, the atmosphere maybe warm and welcoming, with laughter, jokes, and relaxed conversation. But then, something happens and conversation becomes personal and emotional....

For those who have experienced before, this may pose less problems. But if you are new to situation like this, what would you do?

Situation can become worse and complicated if both the husband and the wife are your very good friends. Now they both look at you, asking you for your opinions and judgments. What would you say?

It is faster and easier to help our friends to deal, analyze and solve problems. But conflicts between husband and wife, father and son, mother and daughter, or any other family conflicts can never have a simple solution.

I will insist not to take side with anyone, even if we know for sure that one party is clearly wrong. Family matters are personal matters. It is better not to meddle or it may backfire.

I personal will make excuses and leave the place if they are other family members around and they are in good hand.

If I am to stay, I may help with the clean up or take the children away from the conflict.

What would you do if your best friend is having family conflict?

7 comments:

Con Artist Trickster said...

Yup. I'll surely leave them alone for a while, until things get clear. After all, I know I'm not the greatest conflict counselor of all.

Unknown said...

Well, these kind of conflicts do happen... But I am sure you need some time to get through with this!
I am glad you did share this here!

Yeo KeeHui said...

Con Artist Trickster - I'm not a great counselor too. Besides, it is kind of personal in family conflict.

Vishal Dharamdas - Thanks! Family conflict can last a long while; a forgiving and forgetting spirit is necessary if the family were to live and thrive for a very long time.

Everyman said...

A really tough situation. I agree, you can't really take sides, that would probably exacerbate the problem. I guess I would give them space to do their own thinking and be there for them should they need me to...and would definitely stay away from making either one of them out to be the bad guy. A tough pickle to be in.

Yeo KeeHui said...

Sometimes I was caught in situations like this and I became worried. Now I am more careful whenever interacting with friends who are married. lol

Reanaclaire said...

I have experienced few times.. not a good sight but it is best to distract my lady fren by pulling her away..

Yeo KeeHui said...

Reanaclaire - I think it will work if we can help fast before it turns into accusations and quarrels. Thanks, my friend.

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