How to Escape a Cycle of Dysfunction

Children are often the victims of dysfunctional families.

When someone is trapped in a cycle of dysfunction, the situation can feel hopeless. There are feelings of frustration, anger, loneliness and depression. Several things can drag a person into a cycle of dysfunction: the way someone is raised, the friends and relationships he keeps, addictions and bad habits. Psychologically, these factors can trap someone into a thought pattern so that he does not even realize the way he is living is not functional. Luckily, help is available to you or your loved ones struggling in a chronically toxic environment.

Instructions

1. Intervene in a family situation, especially when young children are involved. Generational dysfunction refers to bad home environments that are passed down from parents to children. Children model the behavior of the adults around them, so it is important to monitor the home to ensure the child is not exposed to abuse, excessive drug use or other chronic dangers.

2. Seek professional help in breaking the cycle. Psychologists, doctors and counselors are trained in their respective fields to help people when they need to get their life moving in the right direction. Your professional may recommend a course of action, encourage you to reflect on the dysfunction in your life and connect you to other resources in your community.

3. Join a local support group for individuals that share your struggles. In situations of chronic dysfunction, a person can feel alone. By connecting to a support group, you can learn strategies other people have used in their struggles, find people to hold you accountable and receive comfort in knowing you are not the only person with these issues.

4. Spend time away from the dysfunction. If someone is constantly trapped in a negative environment, the issues that surround her can begin to feel normal over time. By taking time away in a positive environment, a person can more clearly recognize the areas in her life that need changing or improvement.

5. Change your pattern of thought. Attempt to become more positive and empowered. Examples of ways to do this are creating a list of goals and keeping handy materials that motivate you.

6. Find activities or do things to relieve the stress that can be associated with a dysfunctional pattern of behavior. Exercise, hobbies and listening to music are all example of stress relievers that can help you feel ready to take on the rest of the day.

7. Educate your peers. Whole communities can suffer from the effects of poverty, racism or other issues that get passed from generation to generation. Pass on the information that you have learned to the people in your neighborhood; they may be struggling with the same problems as you and not even realize it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are concerned about the safety of yourself, a friend or a family member, call your local crisis hotline or emergency center.

References

• Healthy Place: Breaking the Cycle of Dysfunctional Living
• The New Black Magazine: What Goes Around Comes Around
• Psychic Donut: The Cycle of Dysfunction
• United Church of God: Can You Break the Cycle of Generational Dysfunction?