One cannot make generalizations when looking at the current state of the American family. The idea of what is a "traditional family" is a hard concept to define and changes from time to time based on the and needs of society over the years. Broad generalizations do not account for this factor and too often play upon our worst fears by suggesting that there has been a decline of the American family and its values. First, there are different families. A nuclear or extended family depends on the time. For example, the concept of a nuclear family, a father, mother and children, is a "modern" family. However, in the late 19th Century, the extended family were the most popular. With the increase in immigrants, the number of extended families
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There is myth that such a family structure is the norm and should be considered the ideal American family. Yet, the nuclear family decreases the role of grandparents and other relatives in making family decisions. It often looks inward for emotional support rather than taking advantage of support offered by other family members, society or community. Some believe that for kids to have a closer relationship with their grandparents, they must live with them. I disagree with that to some extent. I personally, have a close relationship with my grandma despite the fact that she lives about fifty miles away. I visit my grandma one every couple of weeks. However, some kids do not get to see their grandparents that much. Some see them maybe once every year on a holiday and that is about …show more content…
For example, they make broad characterizations such as less married couples area staying together than ever before or that more fathers are abandoning their children. However, upon closer study, while divorce rates are higher than they were in the 19th Century, it is more likely for a couple to celebrate their 40th anniversary due to lower death rates. In other words, in modern times, divorce has become a functional substitute for the death of a spouse. Additionally, contrary to assertions, more fathers than ever before are staying with their family and playing an important part in child
There is myth that such a family structure is the norm and should be considered the ideal American family. Yet, the nuclear family decreases the role of grandparents and other relatives in making family decisions. It often looks inward for emotional support rather than taking advantage of support offered by other family members, society or community. Some believe that for kids to have a closer relationship with their grandparents, they must live with them. I disagree with that to some extent. I personally, have a close relationship with my grandma despite the fact that she lives about fifty miles away. I visit my grandma one every couple of weeks. However, some kids do not get to see their grandparents that much. Some see them maybe once every year on a holiday and that is about …show more content…
For example, they make broad characterizations such as less married couples area staying together than ever before or that more fathers are abandoning their children. However, upon closer study, while divorce rates are higher than they were in the 19th Century, it is more likely for a couple to celebrate their 40th anniversary due to lower death rates. In other words, in modern times, divorce has become a functional substitute for the death of a spouse. Additionally, contrary to assertions, more fathers than ever before are staying with their family and playing an important part in child