THE FAMILY : A fundamental unit of society. A group of people of various ages who are usually related by birth, marriage or adoption

What are the functions of the family? To provide for a child's needs because children are unable to care for themselves. These needs are: Food and drink Shelter Warmth and clothing Love and companionship Protection and support Care and training Secure environment A moral code Encouragement to succeed with their education

FAMILY LIFESTYLES: AT THE BEGINNING OF THE 20 TH CENTURY Married women stayed at home to bring up children and take on domestic chores Married men were the chief providers Women had no legal or voting rights – very few “professional” women Poor, cramped housing without adequate sanitation and few luxury items Families often had lots of children Children were expected to be “seen and not heard” Discipline was often harsh. Divorce was a social disgrace – divorced women had no rights No holidays – days out for the fortunate No welfare state or NHS – extreme poverty, early death and disease was common Childs education could end at 8 yrs and they were then put to work Long working hours hours a day was normal

FAMILY LIFESTYLES: AT THE BEGINNING OF THE 21ST CENTURY Many women with dependent children work outside the home and both partners contribute to the family income. Fathers are more involved in the day-to-day care of their children Women are entitled to vote, own property and have same education and career prospects as men Families expect to have a home with flushing toilets, central heating, several rooms and luxury items Families are much smaller Children have more freedom and less discipline Divorce is easier with legal rights for women Holidays are more common Welfare state and NHS provide for all Compulsory education until 16 yrs Shorter working hours (35 hours per week)