Weaving the Fabric of a Healthy Family

In times of war, constant exposure to violence often strains familial bonds and normalizes behaviors that cross into the domestic sphere. Immense stress and deeply rooted, often multigenerational trauma associated with conflict, can lead to antisocial or even violent behaviors in the home. Without intervention, these cycles can be difficult to break.

Through the Healthy Families, Strong Communities (HFSC) Program, participants engage in activities that allow them to explore familial roles from diverse perspectives. "During one session, we played a role-playing game where the elders took on the roles of children, and we acted as fathers. This exercise helped us understand our parents' responsibilities and how we can support them," explains Fourteen-year-old Muneer*, sharing his experience with HFSC.

"A healthy family is one that is built on trust," explained Daban*, one of SEED’s psychosocial support (PSS) facilitators leading HFSC sessions. "An environment that is open to dialogue and conflict resolution. That is what we try to promote in our sessions."

Reimagining Father-Son Relationships

When asked about an ideal father-son relationship, Sarmad* replies, "It's one where we feel free to express our emotions and opinions without fear of judgment or retaliation. Mutual understanding and respect are crucial." Having now completed the eight-session program, Sarmad shared how this has been reflected in his daily interactions with his parents, "I help my dad with household chores, recognizing his need for support as he grows older. In turn, my dad ensures I'm not burdened with heavy tasks. It's a mutual exchange of care and support."

Adam* echoed Sarmad's sentiments, emphasizing shared respect in his relationship with his father. "For me, it’s all about respect. My dad is like a friend to me, but I also respect his age and his efforts for us." He continues, "Every day, when I get back from school, I sit with my dad, and he tells me about different animals. I really look forward to that because I love animals, and it makes me feel close to my dad."

In these ways, we can see how these young boys see their fathers not just as parental figures but also as friends and mentors. HFSC tries to emphasize how improved communications skills and time spent together—whether sharing stories or engaging in activities—can strengthen the bond between them and foster a sense of closeness and connection. Both fathers and sons contribute to a positive environment that allows them to grow and thrive together.

Extending the Bonds: Women’s Role in Healthy Families

Beyond the father-son relationship, it’s essential to recognize that a healthy family dynamic extends to mothers, wives, and sisters. To create a truly cohesive family culture, HFSC emphasizes the importance of empowering and supporting the women and girls in our lives.

"As dads are symbols of protection," says Adam, "a mom is a symbol of affection and kindness. She’s the one who nurtures and cares for her children, helping them grow into responsible adults."

Reflecting on Adam’s statement, Sarmad adds, "My mother raised me and my sister. She’s the one who works all day to provide for our family and gets us into school. I wouldn’t be here without her! I try my best to help her with chores around the house, and when I grow up and have a job, I want her to rest and let me take on some of her responsibilities."

Spreading the Word: The HFSC Impact

Echoing the needs of the community and the engaging nature of the program, all three young boys admitted to spreading the word about HFSC among their friends and neighbors. "My friends keep asking me when the next cohort will start," says Sarmad. "They want to participate and have the same experience. I’ve shared a lot of what I learned with them, but nothing compares to actually being there and fully immersing yourself in the program."

*Names and minor details have been changed to protect the client’s confidentiality.