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300 Society and Beliefs

The family is a basic social unit that

exists in every culture, although its

structure varies widely. The main

purpose of families, which are

usually created by marriage, is

for. PARENTING children.

WHAT IS A NUCLEAR FAMILY?

The term “nuclear family” refers to two married adults

and their children. It has been the main family unit of

Western society since the Industrial Revolution. Recent

social changes, such as divorce and remarriage, have

resulted in many single-parent and step families.

ARE ALL FAMILIES BASED ON MARRIAGE?

Most societies have an elaborate religious ritual to

celebrate marriage. Some couples may choose to reject

this tradition and marry in a civil ceremony. Others

may choose to create a family outside marriage.

WHAT ARE EXTENDED FAMILIES?

In most societies, especially in pre-industrial,

traditional communities, it is usual for a wide circle of

relatives from one or both sides of the family to live

together in the same household. This type of family is

known as an extended family.

1 IN THE FAMILY

Extended families, such as this group of yak herders in Bhutan, work

together like a miniature society. They share domestic and work duties,

childcare, and care of the elderly for the benefit of all the members.

HINDU MARRIAGE 1

A traditional Hindu marriage

ceremony is not just a bond

between husband and wife.

Members of both families play an

important part in the life of the

new family afterwards.

4 OLDER AND WISER

Much of the world’s population

is living longer as health care

improves. While many families

still care for their elderly, some

states also provide some housing

and financial support.

Families

A sherwani is

embroidered with

golden thread

Red is the most

common colour for

a Hindu bride

A veil of beaded

strings shields the

bride from evil

families