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

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

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

9. 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

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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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

15. 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

16. 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?