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Chapter 14

Commitment

Strong families typically are very
committed to each other. They value the
things which make their family special. They
invest time in one another, share in family
activities, and promote one another’s
happiness (DeFrain & Stinnett, 2002; Olson
& DeFrain, 2006). Foundational to family
commitment is the pledge the husband and
wife make to each other:“For this reason a
man will leave his father and mother and be
united to his wife... So they are no longer
two, but one. Therefore what God has joined
together, let man not separate”(Matthew
19:5–6). Therefore, commitment involves
fidelity. How can you build family
commitment?

Set Family Goals

To foster family commitment, set
family goals. This allows all members of
the family an opportunity to share what is
important to them. This kind of
involvement also brings about a
commitment to see that the goals are met.

Practice Family Traditions

Traditions bind a family together and
give them a common history. They make a
family feel special and create warmth and
closeness. Traditions can be as simple as
stories at bedtime, prayers before going to

sleep, or pancakes on Saturday morning.

They can be more elaborate—such as an

annual trip to a favorite destination. If you

have a storyteller in your family, encourage

that person to carry on the tradition of

passing down favorite family stories. Not

only are these stories entertaining, but they

can instill a sense of building a legacy.

Encouraging family members to pass stories

on to subsequent generations also will foster

generativity(concern for establishing and

guiding the next generation).

Develop a Family History

In a related vein, involve family

members in developing and deepening a

Traditions such as birthday celebrations bind a family

together and give them a common history.

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