How do families typically resist change, according to family homeostasis?

Families often resist change through the concept of family homeostasis, which refers to the tendency of a family to maintain a stable environment or equilibrium in their interactions and behaviors. This stability is achieved by adhering to established routines and patterns that have developed over time. These routines create a predictable environment that feels safe to family members, making it challenging for them to embrace new dynamics or changes.

When families stick to established routines, they can avoid the discomfort and uncertainty that change often brings. This resistance is not necessarily negative, as it can provide a sense of security; however, it can also impede growth and adaptation in the face of new circumstances. Understanding this resistance is crucial for therapists and family practitioners who aim to help families navigate change more effectively, as they can work with the existing patterns before introducing new approaches.

In contrast, encouraging open discussions or adapting quickly to new situations would actually promote change rather than resist it. Seeking external validation could play a role in trying to reinforce or change family dynamics but is not a primary means of resisting change. Therefore, the emphasis on maintaining established routines and patterns accurately reflects how families typically handle the prospect of change within the context of homeostasis.