1. Modern Canadian Families
Changes Effecting Family
Present

2. Ethic of Individualism
The me generation
Youth of the 60s were about “do your own thing”
Rebellion against institutions like governments, organized religion or the family
Family members began to lead separate lives

3. The Birth Control Pill Introduced in the 60s
Pregnancy could be controlled for the first time
Sex outside of marriage and common-law relationships became accepted
Married couples could limit the number of their children

4. Liberalization of Divorce Laws
In the past, couples had to prove adultery to get a divorce
In 1968 couples could divorce after living apart for 3 years
Now 40% of marriages end in divorce
Causes rise in blended families, single parent families and lots of custody battles

5. Changing Women’s Roles
Women began attending universities and colleges in 60s
Woman could choose to family and career
Women moved into traditional male careers
Men took on new roles
The nanny

6. Decline of Family Wage
In the past, the man’s wages were enough for family
Cost of raising family has risen since 80s
It may cost over $150,000 to raise a child to the age of 18

7. Smaller Families
Rising costs have caused couples to delay having children
Some families decide to have no children
Fertility rate has declined in Canada, below the rate needed to maintain population

8. Aging of Society Baby boom generation (people born in 50s and 60s
Getting older and living longer
The oldest boomers will reach age sixty-five by the year 2030

9. Effects of Aging Society
Will expect services like housing, and recreation, and healthcare
Weaker family ties may lead governments to step in
Will there be enough care givers?
Will pension plans support the large number of seniors?

10. Advances in Technology
Machines now do dangerous backbreaking work done by people in the past
Computers, electronics, robotics
Now more healthy workplace

11. Improved Quality of Life
Central heating
Medical advances
Easy transportation
Home entertainment

12. Downside of Technology
Working long hours
Often have several jobs
Can’t get away from work - cell phone
Less family time
Couch potatoes
Destruction of environment