UNL for Families

The six qualities of strong families are:

• Apprciation and affection
• Commitment
• Spending time together
• Positive communication
• Coping with stress and crisis
• Spiritual well-being

For more than 20 years, the research of Dr. John DeFrain and his colleagues at the University of Nebraska has focused on families in the United States and around the world who believe they are doing well. Information has been gathered through in-depth family interviews, observations and written questionnaires. More than 17,000 family members in 27 countries have participated.

When asked, "What makes your family strong?" people around the world gave answers that were remarkably similar, regardless of their culture. The six qualities listed above were consistently cited.

"Family Treasures: Creating Strong Families", written by John DeFrain and UNL Extension Educators, was released in April of 2006. Each of the family strengths is described in detail in the chapters of the book. Activities for all families are promoted to reinforce each family strength. Family Strengths is available for check out at the Extension Office or may be purchased through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

For more inforamtion about how to promote these qualities in your own family, go to the UNL for Families web site.