Overview

You need Adobe Flash Player to view some content on this site.

Welcome to the Family Program e-learning lesson on connecting with Guard families. Because National Guard families come from diverse backgrounds, it's important to understand some general characteristics of different family dynamics. At the end of this lesson, you'll be able to recognize the ways families are different, recognize Guard families through the lens of strengths and utilize language which supports their uniqueness, apply new skills utilizing effective and empathic listening.

National Guard families come from a variety of different backgrounds.

Among families, there are differences in culture, socioeconomic status, and educational level, among other aspects. While some are traditional nuclear families, some are single-parent families, and some are blended, all families are unique. Learning to communicate effectively with families involves understanding and recognizing these key differences. In this lesson, you will learn the importance of understanding differences so that connections can be more successful. Effective listening and empathic responses can help you gain a greater understanding of the family.

This lesson will cover some of the unique qualities of Guard families.

At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

Recognize the ways families are different;
Recognize Guard families through the lens of strengths and utilize language which supports their uniqueness;
Apply new skills utilizing effective and empathic listening.