This is a short version of the 1998 Philips National Family Communication Survey, "Let's Connect," taken by more than 500 American families. The questions can be answered in about two minutes. Once everyone has completed them, make time to discuss the results. Remember, there are no "right" or "wrong" answers. Your goal is to understand each other's ideas about these issues. When you've both completed the mini-survey, go to the Comparing Answers page for help in discussing your answers.

On average, how much time do you spend talking to your parent(s) everyday?

less than 15 minutes 15-30 minutes 30-60 minutes

1-2 hours More than 2 hours

When you talk to your child, do you usually:

a) give your child a chance to explain himself/herself? Yes No

b) pay attention to his/her feelings? Yes No

When you talk to your child, does he/she usually:

a) give you a chance to explain yourself? Yes No

b) pay attention to your feelings? Yes No

From this list, check off the three items that you believe your child would say are most important in his/her life right now:

His/her appearance Computers/Internet Family issues

Food Friends' opinions of him/her Having fun

His/her future Money The opposite sex Being popular

Rules in your house Schoolwork

Sports Watching television

How easy is it for your child to talk to you about matters that he/she feels are really important?

Very easy Somewhat difficult Very difficult

Which of the following would be both a good and a practical idea for your family to help you communicate: (check as many as you wish)

Always look for a compromise so that everyone gets a little of what they want.

Ease up on what you expect from each other.

Work on projects together.

Spend more time with each other.

Set up regular one-on-one time with each other every week.

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Comparing Answers

Once you've both filled out the short version of the 1998 Philips National Family Communication Survey-"Let's Connect," compare your answers. You're sure to see some differences. Keep in mind that those differences don't mean that you have a problem. But they do mean that you should talk. We've put some information in this guide to help you discuss your different perceptions. Please don't read that information until after you've both filled out the survey.