Family assessment in Ethiopia: Reasons and resiliencies of separated families

Abstract

Families are at the heart of stability and happiness. Yet families are sometimes leading a life in turmoil. Using an in-depth case study of one family, the study aimed at investigating family assessment to identify reasons and understand resiliencies of separated family in Ethiopia. Data were collected via in-depth interview, document analysis and observation. Family members were in conflict due to suspected unfaithfulness, sole decision making and dysfunctional family structure. The study found that Chaltu, who was a mother, followed a harsh parenting style in handling her children. Bulcha, who was the father, failed to provide love and affection that is expected from fatherhood. From a resilience perspective, Chaltu was heartedly motivated, energized and inspired to be assisted to have open communication and discussion with her husband regarding how to capacitate and empower their children be it psychologically, emotionally, financially, academically and instrumentally aiming at making them independent in leading their life in the long-run in consideration of their strengths. Social work professionals should come to the front as change agents in teaching psychoeducation and co-parenting for the spouses in order to nurture their children successfully.