A synthetic cross arm is provided for use in structural support of conductors on utility poles in an electrical grid. The synthetic cross arm consists of a flexible housing and a cable positioned within a chamber of the flexible housing. The cable is configured to prevent pieces of the synthetic cross arm from separating, falling, or pulling down or breaking utility lines or adjacent cross arms upon a break to the synthetic cross arm. A collar is provided for connecting two cross arms in a horizontal position on a vertical utility pole. A cross arm assembly is provided that includes a collar and first and second cross arms connected thereto. The cross arm assembly is configured so that the first and second cross arms may flex, deform, and rebound, thus reducing or preventing damage to the cross arm assembly.