A particular feeling must be exhibited for two or more people to establish a successful, positive connection with each other. What characteristic is it, you may ask? Well, it is the feeling that allows two people to be open with each other and allows them to express things that they would not normally share. It is the feeling that allows them to be vulnerable. The feeling necessary for relationships to prosper is trust.

THE BASICS OF TRUST

Despite Merriam-Webster defining trust as “the reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something, or it is something that you place your confidence on,” trust by itself is still very hard to explain verbally to other people. When asked, “Why do you trust a person?” The answer that quickly comes to mind is “I just do.” This is why it is commonly defined through interactions with other people.

The degree of interaction shown from person to person can be an easy basis for the trust that they have for each other. What is known about trust is that it is felt when it is lost. When people no longer have the energy and vulnerability around them, they distrust them. This distrust is often felt by both parties involved.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRUST

Trust is important because it serves as the backbone of every relationship. When trust is established between all involved parties, they can be vulnerable to each other, and this vulnerability can help them improve not just their relationships but themselves as well. This can also be seen in authoritative relationships. When those under their care trust a higher authority, they do not see themselves as lower and can function to a degree similar to the higher authority. This is especially true in a family setting.

BENEFITS OF FAMILY TRUST

When a parent is trusted by their children, the children will be able to follow in their footsteps easily because they believe that whatever the parent is doing will lead them to a better life. This also works both ways. When a parent trusts their children, they allow the children to learn new things on their own because they know that the children will know what is good and what will keep them out of trouble.

Allowing the children to develop their individuality through the parent’s trust helps raise an independent child. Of course, the child should still undergo monitoring by the parents, but when trust is established, and the parent allows the child to navigate the world on their own, the child learns the value of independence at an earlier age.

When the child feels that their parent trusts them, they will also extend mutual trust. Children who trust their parents will easily be able to follow and listen to the things that their parent says because they know that whatever it is, it is being told from a place of love, care, and affection.

When a family trusts each other, they also express vulnerability towards each other. When family members are vulnerable toward each other, they will be able to say things to each other that they would generally keep to themselves. Through this, strengths and weaknesses can be assessed, and boundaries can be set.

Once these characteristics are established and developed by the family members, they can work better as a team. Knowing a member’s weakness means that other members can serve as backup and help them fill the gaps of their shortcomings. Knowing their strengths means that they can be the ones to teach those that have difficulties with them. Doing this together fosters an environment that allows the family to work together and improve.

Consistency in maintaining how the family trusts each other is crucial, especially during the growth and development of the children. This not only furthers the growth of the children but the parents as well. Once evident trust is established, a better relationship will naturally follow, and it has already been proven that a better relationship raises better people.

Many fiction books often use the concept of trust to present and create compelling scenarios for readers to enjoy. Virginia Degner’s Without Consent is an intriguing read that tackles the dynamics of how a family trusts each other and the extent they will take to protect this trust. The book is available for purchase on Amazon, so grab a copy now.

Featured image: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cheerful-women-cooking-together-in-kitchen-3772534/

References used:

[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/dennisjaffe/2018/12/05/the-essential-importance-of-trust-how-to-build-it-or-restore-it/?sh=77e4d1d964fe

[2] https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/trust_is_one_of_the_most_important_aspects_of_relationships

[3] https://raisingfamilies.org/blog/why-building-trust-is-essential-to-your-family-team/