Chapter 2: Family Structures Parenting Mrs. Swope Columbian High School

Family Structures Families come in many shapes and sizes One third of all children live with a step family. One fourth of American children live with a single parent. Each family structure has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Nuclear Family Consists of a married couple with one or more child born to them or adopted This type of family has strong bonds Both male and female role models are present Child learns to relate socially to both sexes

Nuclear Family cont. Parents benefit by having a partner to help with the many tasks Usually there is more income Parents can help and support each other in times of stress

Single Parent Family One parent with one or more children in the household May come as a result of divorce, separation, death, or birth to an unwed mother A single person may adopt a child

Single Parent Family cont. Children have more responsibilities Children may be required to do things on their own Children don’t have to share that parent with another parent Children may have only one role model in the home to learn social roles

Single Parent Family cont. Single parent is responsible for all the adult roles Single parent may feel overwhelmed, stressed out Often feels there isn’t enough time, energy, and money

Blended Family Consists of husband, wife, one or both have been married before Also includes their children from the previous marriage or relationship

Blended Family cont. The structure of the blended family is more complex Children of a blended family have more adult role models Relationships with stepparents take time to develop Space may need to be shared Financial strain may be decreased some

Extended Family Several generations of one family live together sharing home and family activities Modified extended family- live nearby but not with each other

Extended Family cont. Children may benefit by having more adult role models Children may receive more attention by other relatives in the home Close family ties form Help with chores and childcare Family members may have less personal space, less privacy

Childless Family Consists of just husband and wife Reasons for remaining childless: Don’t ever want children Unable to have children Waited too long to have children

Childless Family cont. Both adults often work More financial resources available Often are focused on their careers They are able to travel and enjoy their hobbies May be lonely in later life

Adopting Family May be a part of a nuclear, blended, or a single parent family The adopting family has waited for the child a long time Parents bond with the child and then the adoption becomes final at a later date How and when should the child be told of the adoption

The Dual Career Family Both husband and wife pursue careers outside the home Both parents have to participate in parenting roles or outside help is hired May have more money to meet the family’s needs Children may be more independent sharing is household chores Family teamwork, communication and cooperation makes this structure work

Single Living Is a household consisting of one person Many delay marriage, decide not to marry Some are single due to divorce or death of a spouse The period of single living may be temporary or permanent What are the advantages? Disadvantages?