Respect & Civility Go a Long Way
by Family Councils Ontario
Written by Tiffany Fearon, Client Services Coordinator
“One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.” – Bryant H. McGill
Being a member of a Family Council is definitely one that comes with many responsibilities. On top of attending meetings, planning events, and providing peer support to fellow members, Family Councils have to manage an array of interpersonal dynamics as well. Family Councils are comprised of individuals that may have different values, expectations, commitment levels, and communication skills. Having diverse perspectives is a great asset to any group; with that being said it is important for Family Councils to acknowledge differences and find a way to establish group norms that suits everyone’s needs. Overcoming interpersonal challenges with group development is a topic that many Family Councils require assistance with. Although there are several communication strategies and best practices that may assist with de-escalating issues within a Family Council, it’s important to remember that respect ad civility goes a very long way.
Why is Respect & Civility Important for a Family Council to thrive?
Being a part of a Family Council should be a positive and worthwhile experience where individuals want to volunteer their time and efforts. When members feel that they are participating in an environment where respectful behavior is the norm, membership, and commitment levels will be consistent and conducive to growth.
An uncivil and disrespectful environment may expose a Family Council to the following weaknesses:
- Poor member participation and engagement
- Feelings of anxiety, resentment, or hostility
- Increased complaints
- Negative first impressions for new families
- Inability to meet goals and objectives
- Breaches of confidentiality
A respectful and civil Family Council will lead to many positive outputs including:
- Greater sense of satisfaction with the group
- Perceptions of fairness and positive morale
- Increased peer support
- Better teamwork and interest in group development
- Proactive problem solving and engagement with members
- Strengthened relationships with families, residents and home staff
Creating an environment where civility and respect are practiced regularly can be difficult for some groups. There may be underlying root issues that are hindering the group from moving forward. It is important to put forth energy into addressing and rectifying issues to restore a positive group setting.
Here are a few strategies Family Councils can use to overcome challenges related to past interactions:
- Speaking to members privately who are involved in a disagreement to get a sense of what their perspective and their ideas on solutions
- Doing a group exercises on active listening where members are asked to listen and rephrase what their fellow members shared
- Having a roundtable discussion where Family Councils members are given a “speaking totem” when it is their time to share their thoughts. This will help the discussion stay on track and limit interruptions from other members
- Attending a conflict resolution or group development workshop to ensure all members have learned various strategies and best practices for overcoming disagreements
- Ensuring that examples of uncivility and disrespect are addressed in a timely fashion
- Updating the Family Council Terms of Reference regularly to include expectations around appropriate behavior, communication, and language
When Family Council members feel respected and valued, they look forward to meeting and benefit from an ongoing group relationships. Group dynamic is enhanced when interactions are meaningful and stress free.
Remember, positive development is a reflection of willing and committed participants. Respect and civility in any situation will always go a long way!
Photo by Perry Grone on Unsplash