What are known as some of the most severe stressors? (Marriage and Family: The Quest for Intimacy)
1. Death of a child
2. Death of a spouse/parent
3. Separation or divorce of spouse/parent
4. Physical/sexual abuse between family members
5. Family member becomes physically disabled or chronically ill
6. Family member jailed or sent to juvenile detention
7. Family member dependent on alcohol or drugs
8. Pregnancy of an unmarried family member
9. Family member runs away from home
Think about a time where there has been a crises in your family (doesn’t have to be severe). How did your family react? When you’ve thought about that, ask yourself how your family’s reaction corresponded to the resources which were available such as family friends, close family relationships, money, etc… Once again how did your family’s reaction and resources contribute to the outcomes. The family may grow and develop or mature, they may have been able to cope, or they may develop long-term negative reactions.