Definition of “family”
The family is a system with both a functional and a structural aspect. The structural aspect refers to the organization of different family members and the relationship patterns among them. The structural dimension focuses on “the value systems, communication patterns, power structures, and role relationships in the family” (Reutter, 1984, p. 394). The functions refer to the goals, expectations, and purposes of the family system. These functions are critical towards promoting the growth and development of its members. The second area explains how families “fulfill the external and internal demands of their members” (Reutter, 1984, p. 393). This is what makes the family a viable unit.
How the definition has changed over the last century
The above definition emerged in the last quarter of the 20th century. The current definition seeks to maximize the potential of every family member. However, sociologists and clinicians defined the term as a congregation of individuals with similar genetic compositions and socio-cultural practices. They also defined the word as a building block of every society. This explains why the above family functions were not relevant during the time. New theories and models have emerged to examine the family as a functional unit. As well, new theories view the family as the best environment for personal development and growth. Orem’s framework explains why a cooperative effort can help patients achieve their social, emotional, and health demands (Reutter, 1984). That being the case, the definition of the word might change in the future.
Why families have a stronger impact on the people we care for
The article “Family Health Assessment: An Integrated Approach” by Linda Reutter explains how families have a stronger impact on their members. The article explains how nurses can incorporate Orem’s self-care regimes and requirements into the core functions of the family. The family unit has the potential to fulfill the self-care expectations and requisites of its members. As well, the family can address various changes depending on the needs of its members. The family cooperates in order to fulfill the health and emotional needs of every member (Reutter, 1984). It is agreeable that nursing practice seeks to provide the best care and support to every patient. However, only the family seems to understand the health needs of its members. This explains why families have a stronger impact on its members’ health needs.
Every family has the potential to promote the health and wellness of its members. It is also appropriate to understand the existing self-care strategies in every family. This is necessary because every family has its perspectives on human health. Nurses and caregivers should intervene “depending on the interrelationship existing between individuals and their family members” (Reutter, 1984, p. 394). The patient cannot be isolated from his or her family. This is true because the family is a system with its structure and function. This understanding will make nursing practice successful. Caregivers should incorporate other family members in order to achieve the best health results. This is true because families have a strong impact on the wellness of their patients. The patients under our care are not part of their families. This explains why the family and its members will not have greater impacts on the health of such a patient. This article is recommendable because it explains why clinicians and nurses cannot realize their goals without considering the role played by the family in every patient’s life.
Reference
Reutter, L. (1984). Family Health Assessment: An Integrated Approach. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 9(1), 391-399.