View source for Press On a study on family communicative practices for the depressed

This thesis  looked into the  communication practices of family  members to alleviate  the condition of  the depressed  young adult. Specifically, this aimed  to:  (1) describe  the  roles of the  family  members  within the family  network; (2) discover the kinds  of social support  given to the depressed; (3)  describe  the  communication practices through verbal and nonverbal cues; and (4) describe  the quality  of communication of  the members and the depressed. The  study  used two theories, namely  Social Support Theory and Family  Network Theory. 

Four families agreed to be interviewed  for  the study  and they  were  provided  with a  consent and  confidentiality  agreement.  Informants recognize  that each member  of the family  has different roles  to play  within the family. Parents are  expected to  look after, and provide for their children. Elders must  ensure  the  well-being  of the  younger siblings. Results showed there  is an observable increase  in  attention given to depressed  young adults, usually  manifested by  the physical presence  of family  members,  frequent attempts to engage  in conversations and giving pieces of advice. Communication practices are more  verbal than nonverbal, as family  members tend to talk to the depressed individual more, and try  to give  them  as much words of  encouragement.