What Drives You?

What Kind of Car Did Your Family Have?

Episode Summary

Ellen and Tolly explore the 4 types of family cars along with the unique experiences of each environment.

Episode Notes

In this episode, Ellen and Tolly explore the 4 types of family cars along with the relational dynamics within each environment. The 4 types of cars discussed are:

  1. Chaotic
  2. Controlled
  3. Perfect
  4. Real

For each type of family car, Ellen shares what the experience is within that car structure, especially for the children. She also discusses factors that can predict and contribute to the formation of each type of car. She offers practical solutions for the unique challenges within these family cars and the challenges family members face when attempting to implement solutions. 

Ellen and Tolly share real-life, personal stories and examples that bring these 4 types of cars to life.

From her decades of experience as a family therapist, Ellen sheds light on how these 4 types of family of origin dynamics affect us in our adult lives—how we recreate or rebel against them.

Finally, Ellen reminds us of the benefits of understanding these 4 types of cars and the family dynamics they represent—with new awareness, we have a new understanding and choices for how we navigate the road ahead.