Igbo Family Cultural Analysis

The family structure of a modern western family is simply organized and can vary in particular occasions. The Ibo culture however comprises of a firmly organized family structure as family is very significant within the society. Each member of the family is responsible for fulfilling their role either as the father, mother, or child. Each family member must take on certain qualities to properly take on the role of a particular family member. Polygamy, a practice in which the man of the household has more than one wife simultaneously, is practiced by the Ibo culture and contributes to the ranking within a family structure. The Ibo culture consists of set expectations for each individual family member along with the practice of polygamy. Gender dominance and inequalities has greatly evolved in western civilization, as women have come to take on roles equivalent to those …show more content…
The gender preference of males over females, places the men at a higher level within the society while women are given no dominance or authority. Gender preferences of the Ibo culture would continue to impact the children. Children are the future of the society and are raised to inherit the beliefs, customs, and tradition of the preceding generations. The children are to be obedient and respectful to the adults. Along with the gender preference, it is preferred to have sons rather than daughters. The sons would continue the family and be able to help with laborious tasks, as they are raised to fulfill their responsibilities of the future as a man. Just as polygamy sets a rank upon the wives of a family, ranks are also placed upon the children, particularly the sons according to the rank of the wives. The first son of the first wife receives the highest rank. The extreme gender preference upon the men who grasp the dominance within the culture and family structure creates the preference of a son over a