[Mutuality as the central dimension of family dynamics]

Mutuality is the central dimension of family dynamics. This study of family dynamics in Finland forms part of an international comparative family dynamics project. The aim of the study was to describe the family dynamics of childbearing and childrearing families using the six dimensions of Barnhill's model of Healthy Family Systems. In addition to this changes in family dynamics after the childbirth were studied. In this article results of the dimension of mutuality are reported. The sample consisted of families expecting (n = 118) and rearing (n = 94) their first or second child in Finland. The data were collected by questionnaires, using the Family Dynamics Questionnaire and Family Dynamics Measure of 62 Likert-type items developed in U.S. (Lasky et al 1985). In generally childbearing and childrearing families were healthy and well-functioning. However, unmarried couples, fathers and families expecting and rearing their second child seemed to be vulnerable and therefore they need more support in adapting to the normal stages of development.