Communication Distortion between Mothers and Adult Children in a Cross-Cultural Counseling Perspective: Analysis of the Transactional Counseling Model on Solitary Behavior in the Elderly

Nopi Nopita Sari; Fadhilla Yusri

doi:10.30640/dewantara.v5i2.6570

Authors

Nopi Nopita Sari Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi
Fadhilla Yusri Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30640/dewantara.v5i2.6570

Keywords:

Communication Distortion, Cross-Cultural Counseling, Elderly Isolation Behavior, Family Conflict, Transactional Counseling

Abstract

This study aims to describe communication distortions between mothers and adult children from a cross-cultural counseling perspective and to analyze solitary behavior in the elderly based on the Transactional Counseling model. This study used a qualitative method with a case study approach on a 72-year-old woman with the initials S who experienced a prolonged conflict with her daughter. Data were obtained through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, then analyzed descriptively through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results indicate that family conflict occurs due to communication misunderstandings influenced by generational differences, the child's emotional state, one-way communication patterns, and family cultural values that emphasize advice and harmony. This communication distortion results in a strained mother-child relationship, decreased interaction with grandchildren, and the emergence of solitary behavior, loneliness, and emotional distress in the client. Based on the Transactional Counseling analysis, the imbalance of the Parent, Adult, and Child ego states in family interactions is a significant factor that exacerbates the conflict. Therefore, cross-cultural counseling with a neutral, empathetic approach oriented toward understanding the meaning of communication is essential to help restore family relationships and the psychological well-being of the elderly.

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