Chapter . Self-Quiz: What Communication Pattern Does Your Family Have?

In my family, we often talk about our plans and hopes for the future.

We frequently talk as a family about the things we have done during the day.

My parents tend to be very open about their emotions.

I really enjoy talking with my parents, even when we disagree.

My parents and I often have long, relaxed conversations about nothing in particular.

In our family, we often discuss our feelings together.

I can tell my parents almost anything.

My parents often ask my opinion when the family is talking about something important.

My parents frequently say things like, “Every member of this family should have some say in decisions.”

When anything really important is involved, my parents expect me to obey without question.

In our home, my parents usually have the last word.

My parents feel that it is important that they be the boss.

My parents sometimes become irritated when my views differ from theirs.

If my parents don’t approve of a particular behavior, they don’t want to know about it.

When I am at home, I am expected to obey my parents’ rules.

My parents often say things like, “My ideas are right, and you shouldn’t question them.”

My parents often say things like, “There are some things that just shouldn’t be talked about.”

My parents often say things like, “You’ll know better when you’re older.”

Note: This Self-Quiz is adapted from the Revised Family Communication Pattern Instrument (Ritchie & Fitzpatrick, 1990).