Question

The two images shown above represent two family forms. Which one is characteristic of urban societies? Justify your answer with the help of six reasons.

Answer 1

Image 2 that represents a nuclear family is characteristic of urban societies.

Reasons:

1. Nuclear family is a small family group consisting of husband, wife and children. Image 2 shows a small family of four members.
2. Since there is a dearth of space and housing facilities in urban areas, this family form is most preferred. The nuclear family culture has emerged predominantly due to this reason.
3. As nuclear family does away with the traditional patriarchal structure and divides the authority equally between both the partners, it has acquired popularity in urban societies.
4. It priortises the ideas of love and understanding in marriage, hence, is preferred by the present generation in urban societies.
5. It gives space and promotes individualism.
6. The focus on religion and traditions is less in this family form.
7. Traditional gender roles are reshaped with the participation of women in workforce. It makes women independent and assertive and so is increasingly becoming common in urban setup.
8. It promotes family planning and has led to a decline in birth rate.