| Communication Standard | Examples |
|---|
| Openness | - Share feelings; able to talk when something is wrong
- Talk about sensitive issues like sex or drugs
|
| Structural stability | - Everyone listens to and obeys at least one person in the family
- Deal with emotional issues when everyone can handle them
|
| Affection | - Be loving and affectionate with one another
- Say affectionate things like “I love you”
|
| Emotional and instrumental support | - Help each other; know support will be there
- Able to count on each other
|
| Mind reading | - Know what’s going on with each other without asking
- Understand how the other feels without discussing it
|
| Politeness | - Never be rude or inconsiderate
- Never talk back
|
| Discipline | - Have clear rules for family members
- Know the consequences for breaking family rules
|
| Humor or sarcasm | - Able to tease other family members
- Poke fun at each other, lovingly
|
| Regular routine interaction | - Meet regularly to discuss things
- Set aside time to communicate
|
| Avoidance | - Avoid topics that are too personal
- Agree to skirt issues that are painful
|