DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILY AS A RISK FACTOR IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT: CAUSES, CONSEQUENCES, AND POSSIBILITIES FOR INTERVENTION
Keywords:
dysfunctional family, child development, risk factor, intervention, mental healthAbstract
A dysfunctional family represents a complex and multidimensional social phenomenon that significantly affects the emotional, social, and cognitive development of children. The aim of this paper is to analyze the key characteristics of dysfunctional families, identify the causes of their occurrence, and examine the consequences for the development of children and youth. Special focus is placed on the possibilities of prevention and intervention through the educational, social, and family systems. The results indicate the importance of timely recognition of problems and the involvement of professional services.
A dysfunctional family represents a significant risk factor for the overall development of children, affecting their emotional, social, and cognitive functioning. The paper is based on a review of recent scientific literature, integrating theoretical and empirical findings. The results indicate that family conflicts, poor communication, socio
economic factors, and parents’ psychological difficulties are among the most significant causes of dysfunction. The consequences most often manifest through emotional disorders, behavioral problems, and difficulties in socialization. Contemporary approaches emphasize the importance of early problem identification and multisystemic action involving the family, school, and the wider community.
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