Levels of Family Adaptability

Rigid

• Families who are shown to have lower levels of family adaptability are considered "rigid." These types of families typically have strong authoritarian parental leadership, which is not often shifted from one parent to another. Another characteristic of this type of family is a lack of evolution of change and very strict rules and procedures. Familial roles in this type of family are very clearly defined and rarely if ever do they change. In a rigid family structure there is typically one person who is the most controlling in the entire family unit. In a study determining the association between family adaptability and children's creativity, children in rigid family structures showed the lowest levels of creativity.

Structured

• Families that show moderate adaptability scores and are categorized as "structured" families are one of the two most stable types of family units. Structured families show the ability to balance both change and stability in a manner that is more functional for family members. A structured family is less rigid and controlling and parental leadership, though strong, is shared between both parents. Familial roles are stable, clear and understood, although families are more able to shift with change and bend and share roles when necessary. There is some shifting in structured families, but rarely great change.

Flexible

• Families that show higher levels of adaptability while still retaining structure are categorized as "flexible." A flexible family structure is more open to change and is more easily adaptable to outside stressors and shifts but retains a healthy balance of power in parents and children. Clear leadership is shared between parents often and familial rules can occasionally change. Flexible families give children the opportunity to be active participants in their families while still providing them with guidance and leadership. Children in flexible family structures show lower levels of delinquency and higher levels of creativity.

Chaotic

• Families that show very high levels of adaptability fall into the "chaotic" family structure. In chaotic families there is a lack of strong structure and parental leadership. Power roles are shifted often between members of the family, including between parents and children. Change is a constant in chaotic structures and erratic family communication is typical. Familial decisions in a chaotic family are often impulsive and ill-prepared. Chaotic family structures and rigid family structures are two of the more problematic structures for the well-being of a family and children.