Family Forum

Communication in Families of Origin in the Concept of David H. Olson’s Circumplex Model and the Self-Esteem of Young Adults Growing Up in Them

2025-01-15T08:11:17+00:00

The research presented in the article focused on the context of shaping self-esteem in individuals raised in households with varying levels of family communication. The research objective was to determine the levels of general self-esteem and specific self-esteem in adults who grew up in families with different levels of cohesion, flexibility, and communication. The study was conducted among 252 men and 252 women using a diagnostic survey, employing David H. Olson's Family Assessment Scales and the Multidimensional Self-Esteem Inventory by Edward J. O'Brien and Seymour Epstein. The research confirmed weak to moderate correlations between the quality of communication in families of origin and the level of self-esteem in adulthood. The findings indicate that the more effective the communication in families of origin, the higher the self-esteem of young adults. Conversely, the less effective the communication, the lower their self-esteem. The conclusions lead to recommendations for improving parents' communication skills, which would, in turn, enhance their children's communication abilities and strengthen their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.

Self-esteem and communication competence of female students pursuing degree in pedagogy in view of dimensions of family communication

2025-01-15T08:11:02+00:00

Students pursuing a degree in pedagogy are expected to present high communication competence that is often correlated with self-esteem. While deliberating on their sources, the authors decided to focus on family and dimensions of family communication. The aim of the presented paper was to identify communication skills and self-esteem presented by students pursuing a degree in pedagogy and to check whether dimensions of family communication act as their mediators. A diagnostic survey and the following measures were used to collect data: Self-Esteem Scale (SES), The Self-Perceived Communication Competence Scale (SPCC) and Kwestionariusz wzorców komunikacji rodzinnej (Family Communication Patterns Questionnaire, Polish acronym: KWKR). The study group was found to present low self-esteem and average communication competence, and the obtained results additionally pointed to the modifying role of dimensions of family communication, primarily in the context of self-esteem and to its restricted scope in the context of communication competence. The results revealed a significant role of family and family communication patterns in human development and functioning, in particular with reference to individuals planning to pursue a career resting on relations with other people.

Silence in parental communication

2025-01-15T08:10:58+00:00

Tło: Komunikacja rodzicielska stanowi ważny podsystem komunikacji rodzinnej. W literaturze przedmiotu często omawiana jest ona pod kątem stylu komunikacji, mówienia i słuchania, a więc analizowana jest w kontekście komunikacji werbalnej i niewerbalnej. Istotną kwestią w komunikacji rodzicielskiej pozostaje jednakże nie tylko to, co zostało wypowiedziane, ale również to, co zostało przemilczane. Dlatego warto zwrócić również uwagę na milczenie jako ważną formę komunikacji rodzicielskiej.
Cele: Autorzy postawili sobie za cel zwrócenie uwagi na milczenie w sferze porozumiewania się rodzicielskiego w kontekście korzystania przez młodych ludzi z internetu. Milczący dom, to dom w którym wiele problemów, spraw rodzinnych owianych jest milczeniem. I właśnie znaczenie owego milczenia zostało podkreślone w artykule, a także wskazane zostały wyzwania przed jakimi stają obecnie rodzice w kontekście komunikacji rodzicielskiej.
Metodyka: W pierwszej części artykułu przedstawione zostały wyniki badań dotyczące milczącego domu. Badania przeprowadzone zostały w okresie 24-27 listopada 2020r. na próbie dobranej w sposób kwotowy, z panelu internetowego SW Panel administrowanego przesz firmę SW Research. (1072 respondentów). Sondaż przeprowadzono przy użyciu techniki CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview). W drugiej części artykułu zastosowano wtórną analizę danych ilościowych pochodzących z badań zrealizowanych w 2021 i 2022 roku „Nastolatki 3.0” (NASK – PIB)
Wyniki: Badania pokazują, iż milczący dom kojarzy się Polakom zdecydowanie negatywnie. Pojęcie to utożsamiane jest raczej z kłamstwem i półprawdą oraz smutkiem i brakiem zrozumienia przez bliskich. Milczący dom może być rozpatrywany również w kontekście braku otwartości komunikacyjnej. Badania pokazują również, że wobec doświadczanej przemocy młodzi ludzie milczą, nie informują o niej rodziców i opiekunów.
Wnioski: Milczenie stanowi integralną część komunikacji rodzinnej, w tym rodzicielskiej. Milczący dom, to często dom w którym brakuje otwartej komunikacji, która pozwala wzajemne zrozumienie, otrzymanie wsparcia i pomocy. W kontekście komunikacji rodzicielskiej brak otwartości komunikacyjnej w obszarze słuchania i mówienia o istniejących problemach prowadzić może do sytuacji w której najmłodsi członkowie rodziny pozostają osamotnieni i samotnie muszą radzić sobie z trudnościami, problemami i zagrożeniami jakie pojawiają się w komunikacji zewnętrznej, w tym zagrożeniami jakie niesie niewłaściwe wykorzystanie internetu.

The role of managing information about infidelity and differentiation of self in the adaptation of spouses after infidelity

2025-01-15T08:11:14+00:00

Infidelity in marriage leaves a lasting mark not only on the relationship between two people but also affects the functioning of the entire family system. In psychological analyses, research on infidelity is dominated by approaches focusing on its negative consequences. These include, among others, the dissolution of the relationship, increased symptoms of depression, lowered self-esteem, and the emergence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Practical aspects are characteristic of studies where authors emphasize behaviours aimed at preventing infidelity in relationships. Relatively few publications are dedicated to identifying and discussing the psychological variables that may support adaptation after experiencing infidelity in a romantic relationship. The main goal of this article is to propose a new model of adaptation for couples after infidelity in marriage, based on the assumptions of systemic family theory. The specific aim is to present the results of research from the last decade that relate to the variables proposed in the model, such as self-differentiation and managing information about infidelity.

In the shadow of a narcissistic mother's manipulation

2025-01-15T08:11:09+00:00

The article contains theoretical considerations and presents an analysis of the phenomenon of manipulation by a toxic mother in the context of its impact on family relations and the personal development of adult children. A definition of the narcissistic mother and the phenomenon of manipulation was made. Maternal manipulation was also shown, taking into account its basic characteristics, mechanisms and manifestations in the context of family relations. It goes on to show how being raised by a narcissistic mother affects adult life. In addition, the article includes a recommendation for adult children of narcissistic mothers to allow them to recover emotionally from the trauma suffered.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Selected family determinants of the narcissistic style of behavior

2025-01-15T08:11:28+00:00

Background. Although the narcissistic personality disorder is well-known in psychological literature, the issue of psychosocial determinants of the narcissistic behavioral style is still prone to do the research. So is in case of the study of the specific character of parental attitudes and traumatic experiences in the subjects’ childhood and adolescence.
Objectives. The aim of the study was an analysis of the situation in the families of respondents with dominant characteristics of narcissistic personality, with a particular emphasis on the retrospective assessment of parental attitudes.
Methodology. The group of 78 students with narcissistic behavioral style were selected for the study. The control group consisted of individuals who did not display this type of behavior. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Personality Disorder Research SCID II (M.B. First, M. Gibbon, R. L. Spitzer., J.B.W. Williams, L. S. Benjamin, 2014), referring to narcissistic behaviors, was used along with a questionnaire of the authors’ own design which contained demographic details as well as information on the situation in the subject’s family of origin and traumatic experiences, if any, and The Questionnaire for Retrospective Parental Attitudes (KPR-Rocdeveloped by Mieczyslaw Plopa (2008).
Results. The research demonstrated that parental attitudes, particularly of mothers who were found to be excessively demanding and inconsistent in interactions with their children, were of special relevance for the formation of the narcissistic personality style, whereas when it comes to fathers, it was primarily a lack of consistent behavior that was significant. It was also observed that the families of origin of individuals with this personality type often used violence and physical punishment, and often struggled with parents’ addictions.
Conclusions. The research confirmed the significant influence of family interactions on the formation of narcissistic personality traits.

Łukasz Ciepliński’s secret messages formulated in his death cell as a form of family communication during the Stalinist period

2025-01-15T08:11:11+00:00

The article concentrates on biographies of the Steadfast Soldiers. They can serve as an inspiration in upbringing towards maturity. There are very few psychopedagogy works devoted to the Steadfast Soldiers. The author’s intention is to revive the scientific discussion on this subject.
The objective of the article is providing an answer to the following question: What was the role of secret messages sent by Łukasz Ciepliński from his death cell to his family?
The author applies the history-pedagogy biographical method. The part of Ciepliński’s life that coincides in Poland with the Stalinist period after WWII is analysed. The main focus of the studies are the last months of his life, spent in his death cell.
The article derives its sources from the available biography-history works as well as from Ciepliński’s secret messages to his wife and his only child – the very young Andrzej. In the communication analysis of the secret messages the four level communication model is used. According to the model, a statement of a person consists of the following levels: subject (information), self-presentation, relations, and a calling.
Results: The Ciepliński’s secret messages fulfilled the following communication roles: sharing information on the fight for Poland’s freedom, revealing information about himself (value hierarchy – God-Honour-Fatherland), expressing his longing and love for the family (relation’s level), appeal for finishing these tasks that he himself was not able to complete and for giving the priority to higher values. The appeal is particularly strongly directed at his son. Ciepliński asks him to care for his mother (Ciepliński’s wife) and work hard to become an educated man who can serve his motherland well.
Conclusions: Łukasz Ciepliński’s secret messages, formulated by a well-educated and devoted soldier, as well as a caring husband and father, can serve as guidelines for all of us, demonstrating how to implement the slogan God-Honour-Fatherland.

Contacts of persons serving prison sentences with family and other relatives. Sources and conditions

2025-01-15T08:12:48+00:00

Background: Contacts between convicted persons and their family as well as other relatives is an important issue in the area of penitentiary science. It is believed that such contacts reduce the discomfort of imprisonment and that they are a prerequisite for successful social rehabilitation and re-adaptation.

Aim: The aim of the article is to present the results of the research on who prisoners contact from among their own family and relatives and whether there are correlations between the sociodemographic features of prisoners and the possession of these contacts.

Methodology - The material for the research comes from own-made questionnaires completed by 345 people serving a sentence of imprisonment in one of four prisons in Poland.

Results - It was established that convicted persons have contact especially with the following types of sources: stepson, partner (be it female or male), friend outside the prison. After taking into account all contacts with children, stepchildren, sisters, brothers and friends (each respondent could have several), the order of contact sources changed and was as follows: partner (male or female), mother, stepchildren. Attention was drawn to the low percentage of inmates contacting their own children.

It was found that having contact with family members and loved ones depends on the gender and age of the respondents, as well as their education and the length of the prison sentence. On the other hand, the number of stays in penitentiary isolation was of little importance.

Conclusions - Maintaining and developing contacts of convicted persons with their family members and relatives should be a central element of penitentiary policy. Relatives who are known to be the main source of contact should be recruited as allies, who can help with penitentiary work. Bearing in mind that the source of support after being released is most often one's own family, when there is no contact with its members, the inmates should be encouraged to initiate it, especially with regard to the relationship between the father and their own offspring.

Falling in love in engagement and marital relationships

2025-01-15T08:11:22+00:00

The love accompanying the relationship between a man and a woman takes many forms. In the context of the scientific research conducted by Sternberg and by the theory he created, the combination and intensity of the three components of love: intimacy, passion, and commitment makes it possible to distinguish the different types of relationships into which a person enters (liking, infatuation, falling in love, fatal love, friendly love, perfect love) and to create a scheme of the phases of an emotional relationship.
The object of the conducted discussion became the feeling of falling in love, while the scientific research aimed to indicate its importance for building relationships in the period of engagement and marriage. The applied method of critical analysis of the literature on the subject made it possible to draw the following conclusions: falling in love, experienced both in the period of engagement and marriage, has its positive and negative sides. This is because the feelings a person feels can be directed not only to the fiancé, spouse, or immediate family members but also to third parties.

The problem of the relationship of can. 1095, n. 2 CIC and can. 1095, n. 3 CIC in the light of the sentence of the Roman Rota c. Serrano Ruiz of January 23, 2004

2025-01-15T08:11:50+00:00

Since the beginning of the promulgation of the CIC in 1983, there has been a debate about the conceptual differences between evaluative discernment as to the essential marital rights and obligations (can. 1995, n. 2 CIC) and the ability to assume these obligations for psychological reasons (can. 1095 , n. 3 CIC). The aim of the undertaken study is to show the relationship between these two titles of nullity of marriage; the point is to show that the incapacity to undertake these duties is an autonomous title. This will be shown by analyzing the judgment of the Roman Rota of 23.1.2004, c. Serrano Ruiz, in which the marriage was annulled due to this incapacity, despite the fact that in the previous instance there were two negative judgments due to a serious lack of evaluative discernment. This means that the person, although capable of evaluative discernment, was not capable of assuming (and fulfilling) the essential marital obligations. A postulate arises to pay careful attention to the autonomy of can. 1095, n. 3 CIC, in which a large role is played by court experts.

Toward positive parenting: Exploring the relationship between empathy and gratitude and parental attitudes

2025-01-15T08:11:37+00:00

Background: Despite many studies on parental attitudes, the extent to which parents’ emotional resources of parents, such as empathy and gratitude, are associated with parental behaviours and attitudes towards children remains unclear. Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between the emotional disposition to being grateful and empathetic in parents and their positive parenting attitudes as emotional warmth, autonomy support, and democratic attitude. In addition, the relationship between empathy, gratitude, and negative attitudes such as punitive, permissive discipline and anxious intrusiveness was assessed. Methodology: A sample of 712 Polish parents of children aged between six months and twelve years completed the Interpersonal Reactivity Index, the Gratitude Resentment and Appreciation Test, and the Parental Behaviours and Dimensions Questionnaire. Results: The two proposed structural equation models (SEM) confirmed that empathy and gratitude are predictors of positive and negative parenting dimensions. In addition, gratitude plays a mediating role between different dimensions of empathy and parenting behaviours. Emotional empathy, personal distress and simple appreciation are the most significant factors for positive parental attitudes. Punitive and permissive attitudes are associated with empathy, but not with gratitude. In contrast, anxious intrusiveness is associated with both empathy and gratitude. Conclusions: These findings contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between parents’ emotional resources and their parental behaviours. The results suggest that parents should enhance the experience of empathy and gratitude in their daily lives, as these emotions strengthen positive parental behaviours and weaken negative parenting.

Levels of post-traumatic stress, sense of life satisfaction and sexual satisfaction afternatural childbirth with and without attendant assistance

2025-01-15T08:11:53+00:00

The main aim of the study was to examine the level of post-traumatic stress in women and their partners after experiencing natural childbirth in one of its three circumstances. In addition, the aim of the study was also to examine life satisfaction with a focus on partners' sexual satisfaction.
The study was conducted on a group of women and men (N=180) who became parents as a result of a woman giving birth alone, giving birth with a partner or giving birth with a companion other than a partner. The following tools were used in the study: Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Impact of Events Scale IES-R, Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire.
Statistical analyses were performed using one-way analysis of variance for independent groups and post hoc test with Bonferroni correction or Games-Howell correction. Results confirmed the hypotheses that solitary natural childbirth is a predictor of post-traumatic stress disorder in women and influences their feelings of lower life satisfaction. In men, on the other hand, participation in natural childbirth with a partner significantly affects feelings of lower sexual satisfaction.
The hypothesis of lower life satisfaction in men actively participating in natural childbirth was partially confirmed. The results obtained are discussed with regard to the interferences, limitations and possible future use of the study.

Maternal emotions during child’s transition to the preschool

2025-01-15T08:12:42+00:00

A child's transition to preschool is an important stage in family life. This is the time when the child becomes a member of a larger community than the family. The aim of the study was to analyze what emotions mothers feel about their child going to preschool. One thousand and forty mothers of at least one child in preschool age (between 2 to 4,5 years old participated in the study. The surveyed women completed a questionnaire on the intensity of emotions related to the transition of a child to pre-kindergarten. The results indicate that the lack of prior experience with daycare is associated with greater anxiety, sadness and regret felt by mothers. Thus, the process of adaptation before the child enters pre-kindergarten should involve parents.

Educational support for fathers caring for the quality of their relationship with their child after divorce

2025-01-15T08:11:55+00:00

Background. Educational support for fathers who strive to improve their parenting competences, to improve their caring skills, to increase their knowledge of the child's needs at different stages of development, but also for those fathers who have been deprived of regular contact with their child as a result of divorce, is an important factor in determining the quality of the relationship with the child after divorce.
Goals. The aim of the research was to explore the educational experiences of fathers concerned with the quality of their relationship with their child after divorce. The research problems focused on the forms of educational support they undertook and men's expectations of the types of support dedicated to fathers seeking to maintain a good relationship with their child after divorce.
Methodology. The research was situated in a qualitative orientation using a narrative interview which was conducted among ten fathers who are divorced and seek to maintain or improve their relationship with their child.
Results. The main forms of educational support used by the surveyed fathers are online portals, legal and psychological counselling and workshops and training. The surveyed fathers expect the popularisation of involved fatherhood and the expansion of the educational offer for post-divorce fathers especially in the field of family law.
Conclusions. Awareness of the importance of educational support for fathers wishing to maintain a good relationship with their child after divorce points to the need to extend this kind of support to men who are seeking solutions to improve their quality of functioning in a situation of loss of contact with their child.

Between work and family life – selected aspects of functioning and support system in the opinions of women with disabilities

2025-01-15T08:12:44+00:00

This article presents the results of a research of women with disabilities, excluding intellectual disabilities, holistic developmental disorders and mental illnesses. In the literature, one can find studies showing the difficulties of women with disabilities in these areas of life.
The purpose of this article is to analyze the functioning of women with disabilities families in relation to their situation in the labor market and the financial intitutional support of families.
The subject of the study covered the professional and family functioning of women with disabilities, and the purpose was to show the relationship of women's disabilities to their professional and family roles, furthermore to show the support system in these two areas.
It was shown that with the severity of disability, family functioning improves according to women. Subsequently, the professional activity of women with disabilities or their inactivity on the labor market does not differentiate this group of people in terms of family functioning. In addition, the higher the degree of disability of the women surveyed, the more strongly they claim that their disability limits their husband/partner in the professional field. In contrast, the degree of women's disability is not related to their assessment of how educationally constrained their family members are. It also seems that the lower is the degree of disability and the better the labor market situation of the women in the study, the lower are their needs for institutional support.
Disability can be a factor that does not disturb the positive image of the family, the regularity of its functioning and family ties. In addition, the inactivity of women with disabilities, often due to limitations caused by disability, does not necessarily have a negative impact on the family. Families of women with disabilities benefit from financial support from institutions, but the lower is the degree of disability, the better the functions of the family are carried out and the less need for such assistance.

Determinants of parents’ professional aspirations towards children with disabilities

2025-01-15T08:12:52+00:00

The article presents the results of the research aimed to determine the relationship between parents’ professional aspirations towards their children with disabilities and selected psychosocial resources (self-image, social support and ways of coping with stress). The instruments included: Parental Aspirations Questionnaire, The Tennessee Self Concept Scale, The Social Support Questionnaire, and Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations. The analysed material was obtained from 494 mothers and fathers bringing up children with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities. Regression analyses and path analyses were used to determine the influence of selected resources on the formation of parents’ professional aspirations towards child. The constructive role of adaptive competences, such as positive properties of self-image, as well as the negative role of maladaptive competences i.e. poor integration have been confirmed. The positive contribution of social support has not been confirmed.

Leave or Stay? Exploring High School Graduates’ Mobility: The Significance of the Labour Market Conditions and Family Migration Experiences

2025-01-15T08:11:33+00:00

Many factors determine the propensity of young individuals to migrate, with the local labour market standing out as a crucial determinant due to far-reaching impact on the broader community. Equally significant are the migration experiences within families. The article seeks to assess the influence of family migration experiences on the decisions of high school graduates concerning their future place of residence within the framework of the local labour market situation. The study employed a comparative approach, examining samples of high school graduates residing in districts of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship characterized by varying unemployment rates. A diagnostic survey, complemented by statistical methods was employed for the research. Our findings reveal a substantial impact of family migration experiences on the intentions of young individuals regarding their future residence. Notably, a higher proportion of emigrants within the families of surveyed high school graduates correlates with an increased likelihood of expressing intentions to migrate externally. The interaction with the local labour market context reveals compelling insights. The research indicates that the influence of family migration networks is more pronounced among young people in areas with low unemployment rates compared to those in districts facing a more complex labour market situation. These results suggest that in the decision-making process concerning youth migration, social factors, particularly those manifesting in family migration networks, play a pivotal role alongside, if not surpassing, economic considerations, such as the local labour market conditions.

Cryptocurrencies in the family context: trust, information and financial stability

2025-01-15T08:10:56+00:00

Background: The rapid rise of cryptocurrencies has sparked debate about their role in the financial system, particularly across generations.

Objectives: This study aimed to identify and explain differences in attitudes towards cryptocurrencies between Generation Z (students) and Generation Y (their parents) in Poland, focusing on trust in the financial system, perceptions of cryptocurrency value, and visions of the future financial landscape.

Methodology: A survey was conducted in June 2023 with 40 students aged 23-24 and one of their parents each (80 total participants). Respondents answered questions about their trust in traditional and crypto finance, views on cryptocurrency potential, and expectations for future financial systems.

Results: Generation Z showed significantly greater openness and trust in cryptocurrencies compared to Generation Y. The younger generation was more likely to view cryptocurrencies as inflation hedges and potential components of future payment systems. Generation Y demonstrated higher trust in the current financial system and fiat currency.

Conclusions: The study reveals substantial intergenerational differences in cryptocurrency perceptions, with implications for financial education, regulation, and innovation. These divergences may shape the future evolution of financial markets and monetary systems.

Parental influence on Coping Strategies in Youth in Situations of Interpersonal Conflict

2025-01-15T08:11:45+00:00

The goal of the study was to explore ways in which family impacts the etiology of coping strategies in youth in situations of social conflict, with focus on the parental attitudes and their patterns of reacting to situations of social conflict. The Scale of Parental Attitudes (Skala Postaw Rodzicielskich) by M. Plopa, the Questionnaire for Coping Strategies in Parents in Situations of Social Conflict (Kwestionariusz strategii radzenia sobie rodziców w sytuacji konfliktu społecznego) by D. Borecka-Biernat, and the Questionnaire for Coping Strategies in Youth in Situations of Social Conflict (Kwestionariusz do badania strategii radzenia sobie młodzieży w sytuacji konfliktu społecznego) by D. Borecka-Biernat were the tools applied in the study. The empirical study was conducted in middle schools, on a sample of 893 adolescents (468 girls and 425 boys) aged 13 to 15. In the light of the conducted research, it has been concluded that destructive (aggressive, avoidant, submissive) mechanisms of coping with emotional tension in situations of social conflict are shaped by inappropriate parental attitudes characterized by emotional distance or emotional focus of the parents on the adolescent, lack of balanced emotional bond, and high expectations accompanied by excessive discipline and strictness. Among the family-related determinants of destructive coping strategies an important role is played by the patterns of destructive (aggressive, avoidant, and submissive) coping strategies in situation of social conflict presented to the adolescents by the parents. What is more, an analysis of the research material has indicated that appropriate parental attitudes, characterized by support, respect for the adolescent’s independence and their individuality equip the young person with a constructive (task-oriented) strategy that is efficient in overcoming situations of social conflict. It has been observed that a high level of the task-oriented strategy in parents in situations of social conflict causes an increase in the level of the task-oriented strategy in youth in situations of social conflict. It appears that the obtained information can serve as theoretical guidelines in designing parenting strategies that shape individuals capable of coping with conflict in a mature way.

Problem of mixed marriages and the like in the context of the synod's message on the family (2014/2015)

2025-01-15T08:11:25+00:00

The problem of marriages between persons belonging to different Christian Churches and Communities, as well as those between Christians and non-Christians, has been a special subject of pastoral concern for the Churches for centuries. The modern processes of worldwide globalization, the result of which is the free movement of people, have caused a significant increase in mixed and similar marriages. It seems that both church legislation and pastoral practices in this area do not show sufficient sensitivity. What was an opportunity here was the 2014-2015 Synod on the Family.
The aim of the research undertaken was, in the first place, to determine precisely the content of important concepts such as: ‘mixed marriages’ and ‘similar marriages’, and to present the canonical-pastoral situation in the area under study. The next research step was to analyze the relevant documents of the Roman Catholic Church related to the 2014-2015 Synod on the Family in terms of addressing / or not addressing the issue of mixed and similar marriages in these documents, and the development of guidelines of a pastoral nature in this area. Methods of comparative analysis based on the search for key concepts and phrases for the issue and their use in individual documents were used. This made it possible to synthetically examine them and draw research conclusions. As a result of the research, it was found that the synod formulated a clear support of the Church for people living in mixed and similar marriages. It also confirmed the urgent need for increased pastoral care for them. They were seen as having great ecumenical potential. They were even called ‘fruitful opportunities.’ What is also important is the Synodal Fathers’ recommendation that ‘critical points’ in the case of mixed and similar marriages should be resolved primarily at the pastoral, rather than normative, level. The objective power of the Gospel and the testimony of faith was also emphasized, especially in cases where one of the parties is a non-believer.
A certain deficit in the presented synodal documents can be seen in the absence of even a slight encouragement addressed to the Christian Churches and Communities and to the heads of non-Christian religions to contemplate together, in their dialogues, the issue of marriage in general and to make a more coordinated attempt to develop a pastoral program aimed at mixed and similar marriages.

Threats to marital and family spirituality arising from digital world influence

2025-01-15T08:10:51+00:00

The contemporary challenges associated with the family crisis and the increasing number of divorces constitute a significant area of analysis, particularly in the context of marital spirituality, as described by Pope Francis in the exhortation Amoris Laetitia (2016). The aim of this study is to identify the causes of this phenomenon, focusing on threats such as disinformation, fake news, and the misuse of social media, supported by current scientific research. The methodology includes an analysis of the impact of the Internet world on anthropological balance, with particular emphasis on the new educational environment and its influence on the concepts of humanity, dignity, and morality.
The study results reveal the collapse of authorities, variable understanding of the world, and fundamental values as significant threats to family communication, a key tool for mutual understanding. Pope Francis emphasizes that the family should be an environment of truth, devoid of deceit and pretense, which enables its enduring sustenance by God. The analysis of the digital world's impact on the spiritual aspects of the family demonstrates that the absence of truth distances family members from one another, negatively affecting the pursuit of unity with God. The conclusion of the study highlights the necessity of restoring truth in family relationships and referring to Jesus as the antidote to the spiritual crisis, which will help avoid further destructive effects.

Discernment as the key to overcoming problems in marriage and family: roots, boundaries, and pastoral practice

2025-01-15T08:11:57+00:00

Research context: The multifaceted crisis of the family, as well as the growing distance from institutionalizing partnerships, confirm the relevance of addressing the problems faced by lasting relationships between a man and a woman. However, diagnosis alone is insufficient, as it is essential to support the healthy functioning of the family both socially and scientifically.
Research aim: The approach identified by the Catholic Church as a significant antidote to the issues mentioned in the title appears to be a method known as discernment. Therefore, it was necessary to examine the usefulness and adequacy of this approach in working with marriages and families in crisis.
Research method: The research employed desk research, analyzing existing data with a focus on available studies on discernment. Special attention was given to statements and documents issued by the contemporary Promoter of the discernment approach, Pope Francis.
Achieved results: A critical analysis of the concept of discernment and an assessment of its practical usefulness confirmed the key role that discernment can play, if spouses engage with it, in the process of healing marital and family relationships. The universal application of this tool poses some difficulty, particularly given its religious dimension or character, but this can be partially addressed by appealing to the role of conscience as a universal "moral faculty" in humans.
Conclusions: Discernment is, or at least can be, an effective support for spouses who wish to overcome emerging problems, provided it is conducted properly as an interpersonal process.

Theological and moral basis for the pastoral accompaniment of irregular unions in the light of statements of the Congregation/Dicasteria for the Doctrine of the Faith

2025-01-15T08:11:19+00:00

There is an ongoing discussion in the Catholic Church community concerning the shape of the pastoral care of people living in new marriages whose validly concluded sacramental marriage has broken down in the civil sense as a result of a court decision on divorce. This issue has been repeatedly addressed by the teachings of the Church, including the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith transformed into the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in 2022.

This article aims to be a voice in this debate. Its objective is to answer the following questions: on what foundation should the pastoral care of people living in the marital situation indicated here be built and what specific shape should it take?

Achieving this goal became possible thanks to application of the method of theological sciences, through the analysis of sources specific to theology. Pastoral care itself is carried out in the Church, which has theological foundations. Among the multitude of sources, the documents of the Congregation/Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith directly or indirectly relating to the issues discussed in the article were selected as the main ones. These main sources were supplemented by other Church teaching documents and theological studies.

The research conducted led to the belief that the pastoral care of people living in irregular unions should be provided in love built on truth: in love open to every person, inclusive as far as the life of the Church community is concerned, in love built on truth, i.e. on a theologinomoral foundation that cannot be omitted. Every specific form of pastoral care for this type of people should meet these requirements.

In the service of Christian families. House Church circles in the diocese of Gliwice (1982-2023)

2025-01-15T08:11:30+00:00

In 2022, married couples belonging to the circles of the Domestic Church of the Light-Life Movement in the Gliwice diocese celebrated their 40th anniversary. During the commemorative celebrations, which, due to the pandemic, were only organised in autumn 2023 in five districts within the diocese, the members of the movement shared their experiences of the many years of evangelising activity, which they carried out with successes and failures during the difficult period of the Solidarity upsurge and the recovery of freedom, the post-industrial system changes and the time of increased emigration, and finally during the post-secularisation period, the time of the pandemic and the crisis of the Church in the most recent period. It was also noted that the community does not yet have a methodically compiled history, but only a chronicle, the record of which was kept up until 2007.
The aim of this paper is to present the history of Domowy Kościół (Domestic Church) groups in the Diocese of Gliwice, which have been presented in the pastoral space of local parishes since 1982. The scientific discourse, whose background will also be the presentation of the history of this secular association in the Church in Poland at present, will be supported by methods of analysis of historical sources and available scientific studies and pastoral aids. Since no attempt has been made so far to write any kind of synthesis of the history of the movement in the territory of the Gliwice diocese, the work is part of the current to save from oblivion those events which animated the lay communities after the Second Vatican Council in the reality of political, cultural and social changes. The results obtained only confirm how poor the history of the local Church would be without the Domestic Church groups of the Light-Life Movement (Ruch Światło-Życie).

Support for prisoners’ families

2025-01-15T08:11:48+00:00

The article addresses the issue of support for prisoners' families. Its aim was to examine the possibilities of providing support to the families of individuals deprived of liberty by selected entities from the public and private sectors. To achieve the intended goal, the method of analysis and synthesis was employed.
The research findings include the identification of key sources of assistance from both sectors. The results showed that the individual units belonging to these sectors are decentralized and have limited influence. Consequently, at least two recommendations emerged: the necessity of establishing a central institution/organization to coordinate the actions of other entities and the creation of extraordinary pastoral care (both categorical and situational) to offer support to the families of incarcerated individuals with various confessional orientations.

Buffers Mitigating Death Anxiety Among Educationally Active Older Adults

2025-01-15T08:11:40+00:00

The article presents research results on the buffers mitigating death anxiety that educationally active older adults use. The study included 162 older adults attending classes at Universities of the Third Age (U3A). The authors used the Strategies for Confronting the Inevitability of Death Questionnaire. The study aimed to analyze the differences in older adults’ use of buffers to reduce the level of existential anxiety. Statistical analyses revealed significant differences in the use of buffers between older adults with different sociodemographic characteristics; they also revealed differences in the buffers chosen depending on the level of anxiety. Gender differences were examined in the analyses too. The results of the study indicate that gender does not differentiate the choice of strategies for coping with death anxiety.

Family science – profession, competences and work opportunities. Status for 2023.

2025-01-15T08:11:42+00:00

The family science, as a new discipline, will have the influence on grow and professionalization of actual studies direction. The main goal of this article is to analyze of the jobs and job positions that can be possible to take by the students of family science graduates.
The article was developed based on the self-research of the legislation (with desk research method) realized at 2023, practical and science reports and others sources. It can be the next point in discussion about this discipline future. The results will be presented in the form of analysis of jobs and job positions, that are available directly for the family science graduates and others employment, where the additional rights are required. Occupations and positions were divided according to those for which graduates are directly qualified and those for which they are indirectly qualified. A total of 25 of these were identified. The conclusion of the research is that a Family Science graduate has a wide range of professional competences and job opportunities, so care should be taken to promote this field of study and research development.

“Family Studies” – the reason for existence in the light of the social needs of the 21-st century

2025-01-15T08:11:06+00:00

The aim of this article is to present the field of “family studies” in the light of current social needs. The presented image includes the creative potential of the autonomous field of science, which family studies can enrich the reality of human life. In the course of the examination of the selected subject of research, the desk research method was used. The analysis of legal sources and literature took up social issues and family issues. The results of the conducted research enable participation in the scientific discourse focused on the reason for existence the field of “family studies”. The article contains comments on the development potential of this field of science. They include the sphere of theory and practice of family service in the realities of the 21-st century.

Wybrane uwagi dotyczące wytycznych Ministerstwa Zdrowia ws. aborcji

2024-10-21T07:57:17+00:00