Communication in the Family: from Interaction to Personal Relationship (a Personalistic Perspective)

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to present the key issues related to communication in the family from a personalistic perspective. A concept of the character proposed by William Stern served as a inspiration. This perspective varies from the previous ones related to the process of communication, analyzing its structure/course or its effect on human functioning. It does not focus on the process itself or the object of the communication process but on the subject of this process: on the characterological maturity of family members, a maturity that, according to Stern, is the basis of their mutual interrelationship, manifested in action. Character will, therefore, be also manifested in a specific form of communication between family members: immature – interactive – or mature – dialogical, personal relationship. Such a perspective may complement the current ones. It may also prove inspiring for specialists working with the family.