Your Family of Origin

Take a trip down memory lane. Who were you closest to in your family? When you were ill, or needed comfort who came to your aid? Was there someone in your family who seemed to understand you and what you needed?

What was the predominant emotional climate in your family like? Cool, distant or hot, angry or maybe something in between or a combination? Were some emotions more acceptable than others? Which ones?

What did it look like when your parents disagreed or fought? How did they resolve the disagreement? Did their arguments scare you? What messages did you receive about being in a romantic relationship or marriage? What messages did you receive about demonstrating and receiving affection. What messages did you receive about being a man or a woman?

How would you describe the current relationships with your family members now? As an adult, do you notice yourself being pulled back into the role you played as a child when you with them? Are there ways in which you get triggered by your partner that reminds you of how you felt when you were with your family?