Family Systems:

Family Interview
and Reflection
Name
Department, University
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 Introduction

• For this assignment, I had the privilege of interviewing a friend, Maya whose
family system differs significantly from mine.
• Mara comes from an American background, while I am an African American
female.
• Maya lives in a single-parent household resulting from divorce, headed by her
mother and she is an only child.
• They have a close-knit relationship and share responsibilities within the
household.
• I belong to a nuclear family structure that includes both parents actively
involved in nurturing and guiding me.
Maya’s Genogram
 Compare And Contrast
• Maya's family reflects the cultural diversity typical of American society, embracing
varied perspectives and experiences as she shared the positive impact her gay uncle
has had on her upbringing. His presence in her life has offered diverse perspectives
and an inclusive environment, fostering acceptance and understanding of different
sexual orientations within their family.
• In contrast, within my nuclear family, while we value diversity, the family structure adheres to
more conventional societal norms.

• Maya's family has adapted to a different system of co-parenting, where her mother
takes on multiple roles, balancing work and parenting responsibilities.
• Conversely, in my nuclear family, there's a more traditional division of responsibilities with both
parents actively involved in decision-making fostering a different familial system.
 My Family Rules and Norms
• Open Communication: Implementing a culture of open communication to foster
understanding and support among family members.
• Respect and Inclusivity: Emphasizing respect for individual differences and
creating an inclusive environment that embraces diversity in all its forms.
• Family Bonding Time: Prioritizing dedicated family time for bonding activities to
strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.
• Supportive Structures: Establishing support systems within the family, whether in a
single-parent household like Maya's, or a nuclear family like mine, to ensure
everyone feels valued and supported.
• Shared Responsibilities: Instill a culture where every family member contributes to
household chores or tasks, fostering a sense of teamwork and accountability.