A family is a social unit in society. The societal culture where a family exists contributes to the functioning of the family. A review of the literature on family functioning indicates that most studies on family functioning were conducted by researchers in Western countries, particularly in the United States, and were conducted using a Western sample. In most studies, quantitative measurements were used to measure family functioning. No family measurement has been developed so far to measure family functioning in a collectivist culture such as that found in Malaysia. Therefore, we decided to use a qualitative approach in order to explore and understand family functioning in a collectivist society and focused on Malaysia as a case example. Focus group discussions were used to gather the data. Eleven family practitioners from different settings participated in a three-series discussion. Six themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) family role, (2) parenting styles, (3) family rule, (4) communication, (5) value orientation, and (6) cohesiveness. The method used yields rich data and highlights the importance of understanding an issue within its cultural context. The implication for family practitioners and future researchers is discussed.

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The use of written communication through short messages in social media on smartphone platforms has recently become a habit in social relations and communication. Language politeness and emotional intelligence are required by individuals, groups, communities, or institutions in conveying the contents of the messages, ensuring them to be perceived appropriately by their targets. Methods: Survey research was carried out on 173 respondents with Malay culture background in Indonesia and Malaysia using the Self-Rated Malaysian Emotional Intelligence Scale developed by with a reliability value of 0.922 for Malaysian respondents and 0.803 for Indonesian respondents as well as using a politeness scale developed based on Lakoff's linguistic politeness theory. Results:The findings of the study demonstrated that culture may affect language politeness (F (3.169) = 5.759 and M2 = F (4.168) = 4.300, P<0.05). However, language politeness did not correlate to emotional intelligence, age, gender, and educational background. Consequently, the use of communication in short messages should consider the cultural background of both the sender and receiver. Cultural similarities may facilitate the understanding of the message's content and diminish the occurrence of communication issues or conflicts.

Purpose This study aims to explore the family experiences of delinquent adolescents and uses a descriptive phenomenological research design. Design/methodology/approach The study explores the family experiences of delinquent adolescents and uses a descriptive phenomenological research design. Eight adolescents that were under detainment in a rehabilitation centre in Malaysia participated in the study. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and reflective journals. Findings Five themes common to the participants’ experience were inductively identified from the analysis. These were: life without guidance, alienation and isolation, conflict on how the family is managed; I am still a little child and prisoners at home. Originality/value Despite many studies on delinquent adolescents were conducted in Malaysia, no study has been conducted so far to explore and understand the experience of female adolescents in their families.

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