There are different personalities in a family. The father may tend to be authoritarian. The mother may be the supportive, loving spirit in the home. A brother may be a happy, fun-loving boy who always entertains just about anyone with his funny stories. An older sister may be hard to please, no one really knows what makes her happy.
Though family members share the same genes, each individual develops his own traits and characteristics which may be pleasant or unpleasant. It is important for family members to accept each other’s strengths and weaknesses. But it is equally important for each family member to overcome his or her own weaknesses to be able to get along with others.

For teenagers, it is very important to learn to be happy and contented with what parents are able to provide, and to live within the family’s means. It may be difficult to be the only one in the barkada (gang) without imported bags, clothes, or shoes. Or, to be living in an old house when some classmate lives in a big, well-kept houses. Keep in mind that while material wealth may make life comfortable, it is not a family’s only source of happiness. There are other blessings like having true friends, a closely-knit family, superior intelligence, or a special talent like playing a musical instrument, drawing, or designing.
Parents want only the best for their children. However, the best schools, the most fashionable clothes, and a big house are expensive and not affordable to most Filipino families. It is very immature to demand more from parents when they are already doing their best to meet the financial needs of the family.

What makes a happy family?

Love and respect are integral components of a happy family. They can do all things as a family but still maintain the individuality of each member. Do you know that a really happy family does not necessarily mean that they never ever fight or go against each other? On the contrary, a happy family also finds its members disagreeing with each other once in a while.
Just how is it with a well-adjusted family?

-Everyone knows his/her proper place. Parents know their responsibilities and use their authority over their children appropriately. Children clearly accept their duties and at the same time, are made aware of their rights.

-They know that everyone commit mistakes. Each member is always willing to accept and correct the mistakes committed.

-They immediately make up after a fight. Members of the family argue, express each other’s opinions but these fights must always lead to a settlement.

-They share light moments and always find something to smile or laugh about

-They offer each other a shoulder to cry on.